Ricco Ross, an accomplished American actor, writer, and social activist, is widely recognized for his contributions to Hollywood and his two-term tenure on the SAG-AFTRA board. During the #OscarsSoWhite era, Ross was instrumental in championing representation in Hollywood casting, emphasizing talent over stereotypes. He also highlights Tyler Perry’s exceptional leadership and commitment to inclusive casting practices.
“If you want to achieve greatness, you have to find comfort in being uncomfortable,” says Ricco Ross, a mantra that has shaped his remarkable journey.
Born and raised in Chicago, Ross’s humble beginnings set the foundation for his inspiring story. A pivotal moment in his life occurred while attending UCLA, where his talent led to immediate professional opportunities. However, Ross often found himself typecast as a gangster, which left him both grateful and frustrated. Encouraged by his professor, he traveled to London to study Shakespeare, a transformative experience that expanded his artistic horizons and deepened his craft.
Ross’s career boasts a vibrant portfolio of roles across television and film, including appearances in Aliens, The Young and the Restless, P-Valley, and his recent project, Beauty in Black. In Beauty in Black, Ross plays Horace Heart Bellamy, a character he initially hesitated to portray. Reflecting on his career, Ross admits, “I was at a point where I was tired.” However, with the support of his wife, who helped him record an audition tape, he rediscovered his passion for acting. “Ninety percent of success is showing up,” he says, a lesson he embraced as he fell in love with the complexities of the role.
Under Tyler Perry’s direction, Horace Heart Bellamy evolves as a multi-dimensional character, with layers revealed gradually throughout the season. The character’s bisexuality and mysterious nature presented the type of challenge Ross craved, pushing him to channel aspects of his father’s alpha male persona as inspiration.
Ricco Ross’s recent projects continue to highlight his dynamic talent. He stars in two upcoming films, A Man’s Promise and A Lover’s Vow, and recently wrapped An Unexpected Christmas, a holiday film featuring comedian Lil Rel, Tabitha Brown, and Anne Marie Hawthorn, set to premiere next Thanksgiving.
Through his work, advocacy, and resilience, Ricco Ross exemplifies a commitment to art, representation, and personal growth, inspiring others to break barriers and redefine success in the entertainment industry.
