In 1963 - 1967 he studied at the National Academy of Theater and Film Arts - Sofia, Bulgaria - acting for drama theater in the classes of prof. Boyan Danovski. As theater actor Chanev played in Drama Theater, Plovdiv, Bulgaria (1967-69); Drama Theater 'Sofia', Sofia, Bulgaria (1970-90); Little City Theater 'Off the Canal', Sofia, Bulgaria (1990-95). Chanev was artistic director of this theater during the 94-95 years. Since 1995 till nowadays he is an actor in National Theater 'Ivan Vazov', Sofia, Bulgaria. During his career, Chanev has played more than 80 characters in the theater and has starred in more than 30 features, both Bulgarian and foreign. Awards in the theater: 1998 - Best Leading Actor, Theater Festival, Blagoevgrad; 1998 - Best Leading Actor, Festival of the Small Theatrical Forms, Vratza, Bulgaria; 1994 - 'Ackeer' Award supporting male role; 1989 - Best Role Award, Eighth National Drama Festival. Ne is a member of an Union of Bulgarian film makers.The Bulgarian Film Academy 2015 representing the whole film community gives the Award for Best Actor to Rousy Chanev for "Buffer Zone".