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

Hi Rickard, how do you think about risk?

Taking risks when I’m acting is always a goal of mine, but I also think it’s necessary in life, at least for me, in my pursuit of happiness. In fact I think lack of risk-taking was a significant factor when I decided to pursue a career in acting. At that time, I held a well-paying office-job that offered a predictable routine, leaving me eagerly anticipating weekends and holidays. I knew what each day entailed, and I did my tasks without much difficulty. It was a secure path with few challenges or hurdles.

The thought of transitioning into an acting career during that time filled me with fear. I had severe stage fright, struggled somewhat with low self-esteem, and was terrified of the thought of losing a stable income. These challenges combined to create a level of risk that I couldn’t ignore, and I decided to dive headfirst into acting. It turned out to be something totally different than what I expected, something deeper and way more complex yet beautiful.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

Sticking to the process. I believe that hard work is the core of what will set me apart as an artist. In my view, talent varies among individuals, and while having more talent can increase one’s chances of success, it can also lead to laziness. This realization dawned on me early in my acting career. So, I stopped evaluating my talent as a predictor of success.

So, the only factor of my development I can really control is my commitment to the process. I try to approach each audition as if it were the most crucial opportunity in the world and prepare for every role as if it were my potential breakthrough. At the same time, I also try to stay up to date with the industry as well as daily things like working on my speech, sense memory, and physical abilities.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

I’d hop on the yellow line to Harlem, grab lunch at Red Rooster, and travel the entire West side by city bike, taking in Harlem, Columbia University, Central Park, The Lincoln Center, Hudson Yards, Chelsea, the West Village, and Downtown/Battery Park.

Next, I’d introduce them to New York’s vibrant performing arts scene, whether it’s catching a Ballet or Opera at the Met or enjoying a play or musical on Broadway.

On the final day, we’d bar-hop in Greenpoint/Williamsburg, visit breweries during the day, sipping cocktails at Little Rascal, dinner at Lamonte’s, and then of course a bit of dancing at Good Room.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
If I were to win an Academy Award today, I would start by expressing gratitude to my supportive family. Secondly, I would extend my heartfelt thanks to the Lee Strasberg Theater & Film Institute for their instrumental role in shaping my artistic abilities. Finally, I would take the chance to say thank you to my first ever Manager who tragically passed away in cancer earlier this year, Charlotta Hansen: Thank you for believing in me and rest in peace LOVE /Rickard

Website: https://pro.imdb.com/name/nm11456134/credits

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickardclaeson/

Other: https://www.aboutartistsagency.com

Image Credits
Headshot/shirtless: Javi Alvarez (@javialvarez.co) Actionshot/Green Jacket: Adam Eskilsson (@adam_flambo)

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