Meet Richie Swift | Actor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Richie Swift and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Richie, why did you pursue a creative career?
I chose a creative career because early on in my life, I could not see myself sitting behind a cubicle. I don’t remember when I had that thought but I was fairly young; at least about 10 or 11. I’ve always enjoyed singing, creating melodies and writing scenes for my imaginary characters that I thought up in my head. One of the things I noticed as I started getting a little bit older after watching plays, going to see musicals, or going to the movies was why I was always so excited to go. As a teenager I would always find myself in the movie theater and wondering how and why I was so moved by the performances I was seeing a screen, until one day it finally hit me. I was in the movie theater watching Inception, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and what I was watching on screen was what I wanted to do. Immersing myself in the imaginary and bringing the rich stories of the characters to life. I got pretty emotional because it was like this need inside of me that I didn’t know that I was consciously hiding but was under the surface as I played varsity sports, extracurriculars, or people pleasing, that caused me to not notice it as much.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a little strange when it comes to my art. In a way I want others to see the raw truth when it comes to what it means to be human. I’m an astute observer of the human experience and always look for ways whether its through private coaching, film, tv shows, watching people interact, advice from an accomplished actor in person or on a panel, YouTube, IG reel, or TikTok. I am always a student for how people are responding, how they are feeling and I take notes and apply it to my craft. I would say I got here today with just sending out feelers in the beginning and making connections and fostering friendships with people. Because at the end of the day you can be talented but without connections you can only get so far. I wouldn’t say it’s an easy path but rather a bit unorthodox. There really isn’t a linear path like most businesses and opportunities can come about in the most unlikeliest of places.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I had a friend coming to see LA I’d take them to Barnsdall Park on a Saturday to check out the scenic views and then stop at my favorite Italian spot La Antica Pizzeria Da Michele in Hollywood. If they were interested let them see the Hollywood Walk of Fame. I am into fitness so on Sunday I’d take either a Soul Cycle or Rumble class. On Monday we’d do a run on The Strand down in Venice Beach and then check out some of the eats in the area one of them being Belles Beach House. The next day prolly go up to El Matador State Beach and hit up Nobu. Tuesday or Wednesday I’d prolly want to take them to a Lakers game because I’ve been a Laker fan sense I was 8. I grew up watching Kobe. After I’d prolly take them to my favorite Smash Burger spot For The Win. If they aren’t too tapped out Thursday or Friday I’d take them to a Dodgers game. The atmosphere is unmatched with passionate fans and then grab drinks at Bar Flores. Bar Flores is such a cool spot with an upstairs patio in Echo Park and the people that usually go are so cool and friendly. And lastly Lou, French on The Block for his amazing croissants and pastries.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I think a book that has stood out to me was The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. It’s about following your dream. Throughout the story the protagonist has ups and downs but at the end they are rewarded for persevering through obstacles and challenges they faced along the way. I also want to give a shout out to my vocal professor in college Dr. Darryl Nettles who really saw in me something I hadn’t really fully realized in myself and that was my artistic ability and vocal talent. He really helped shape me skill-wise and helped me relate to the material in a way that wasn’t just by singing what was on the page but by putting emotion behind it and truly making it my own, whether it was an aria or a piece from a musical. I also want to thank my teachers and mentors who have helped me hone my craft in acting, The Baron Brown Acting Studio and Lesly Khan Acting Studio.

Instagram: richisswift

Image Credits
Crystina Bond