Biography

Ricky Ryba (pronounced ree-ba) is a multifaceted artist who brings his diverse talents to the forefront as a SAG-AFTRA Actor, a Creative Producer, & a former US Naval Officer.

Some of his proudest accomplishments lie in his supporting role in the blockbuster hit "American Sniper" & directed by the legendary Clint Eastwood. His voiceover work in the world of "Pokemon" & a captivating talent on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" showcase his remarkable range & charisma. On the stage, Ricky's comm&ing presence shines through in lead roles such as the Los Angeles production of "The Ghosts of Ma Barker." Notably, he claimed the coveted Best Overall Actor Award at the Global Stars Network competition, where he triumphed over 200 talented peers.

Beyond his artistic pursuits, Ricky is a passionate advocate for the arts & veteran communities. His commitment to these causes has led him to volunteer with prominent organizations such as SAG-AFTRA, SAG Foundation, MPTF, PGA, AFI, & Veterans in Media & Entertainment. In addition, he has founded & oversees three actor support groups in major entertainment hubs-Los Angeles, New York City, & Atlanta-dedicated to nurturing aspiring talents with unwavering dedication. Furthermore, Ricky serves on the board of directors for Pin-Ups for Vets, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for hospitalized veterans & deployed soldiers. He extends his support to the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH), offering horsemanship & riding lessons to military veterans & individuals with special needs.

Born & raised in New Jersey, Ricky's early life was marked by excellence in sports, earning accolades in football, baseball, track, & wrestling, including many league championships & MVP awards. However, a pivotal moment occurred during his junior year of high school when he was encouraged to audition for the High School Musical. Stepping out of his comfort zone he landed the lead role. This transformative experience ignited a newfound passion for performing.

Yet, the tragic events of 9/11 led Ricky down a different path. Driven by a profound sense of duty, he chose to serve & protect his family & country, putting his entertainment dreams on hold. He was accepted into the prestigious United States Naval Academy & was a standout student athlete as a Varsity Sprint Football player, earning multiple championships & MVP awards. His time at the Naval Academy also saw him joining the Men's Glee Club, acting in plays, & competing in talent showcases while pursuing a degree in Information Technology.

Commissioned as a Surface Warfare Officer, his military career landed him on two warships & deployments overseas & visiting over 20 countries before a transfer to Point Mugu, California, marked the beginning of his pursuit of an acting career. With an unwavering commitment to hard work & self-belief, Ricky successfully balanced his military service & his acting aspirations. In 2019, he concluded his military journey on an honorable note & took the next step by earning a Masters in Producing with honors from the New York Film Academy in 2020.

Ricky's passion for life extends to quality time with family & friends, an adventurous spirit, an infectious sense of humor, & an unwavering commitment to creating art & making a positive impact on those around him. He continues to reside in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, where he lives each day with unbridled passion.
- IMDb mini biography by: NA