Rick Howard: Phoenix Actor Revives His 80s Cult Classic Passion
In the sun-drenched landscapes of Phoenix, Arizona, where the desert heat mirrors the relentless drive of its residents, Rick Howard has carved out a life that blends the steady rhythms of a day job with the unpredictable spark of performance. At an age range of 55 to 65, this New York-trained actor and working musician embodies a story of persistence, reinvention, and quiet resilience. His journey from college theater stages in the 1980s to a 40-year hiatus and a vibrant return just four years ago offers an inspiring reminder that artistic fire can reignite at any stage.
Rick’s professional path began with a solid foundation in the arts. A theater major in college, he gave acting a serious shot back in the 1980s, earning his little 15 minutes of fame before stepping away to focus on adult responsibilities. That early chapter culminated in his first big break: a low-budget horror film shot in 1984 by a company renowned for teen-geared genre fare. The project, later released as Class of Nuke ‘Em High (1986), cast him as Spud in what would become a Troma Productions cult favorite. Playing the memorable character in this outrageous nuclear-themed romp gave Rick a taste of on-screen visibility that lingered in fans’ memories for decades.
After that initial splash, life called. Rick stepped back for four decades, building a stable existence that included raising a family and pursuing other meaningful work. Yet the pull of performance never fully faded. About four years ago, he decided it was time to step back into the spotlight. “I was a theater major in college [and] gave my acting career [a] shot back in the 80s,” he reflects. “I had my little 15 minutes of fame [and] took a 40 year break to adult and started up again about four years ago.” That decision marked the start of a fresh chapter, one that has already yielded new credits and renewed energy.
His return has been marked by a mix of independent projects that showcase both his versatility and his willingness to tackle challenging material. Among his recent and upcoming work is the 2025 short film Immortal Echoes, in which he portrays Dr. Toombs. Other credits include Curse of the Ghost Writer, where he appeared as the Man in Toxic Shock Commercial; the short A Most Passionate Death as a Party Guest; On Air as Steve; and additional projects such as Sue Thunder and Johnny Lightning. On the commercial side, he has appeared as a homeowner in a spot for Donley Plumbing produced by Redd Legend Media. Television work includes Day Job, while his theater roots shine through in productions like Guys and Dolls at the Goodrich Theatre, where he played Nicely Nicely. These varied roles—from background work to featured parts—highlight a career built on both enthusiasm and practical experience.
Preparation remains a cornerstone of Rick’s process. He approaches each character methodically, breaking down the script by attaching verbs to lines and actions to understand motivations and layering in backstory when the page leaves gaps. This disciplined technique, honed through years of training, helps him deliver authentic performances even in demanding scenarios. One such role two years ago tested that resolve profoundly. He played a man sexually assaulting a teenage Native American girl in an independent film, a part he later regretted. “I worked on a film two years ago out here and I played a character that I was not happy about and I regretted doing it after I had done it,” he shares candidly. “Talk about suffering for your art.” The experience underscored the emotional toll acting can exact, yet it also reinforced his commitment to growth.
Mentorship has played a quiet but steady role throughout his life. Rick credits several acting teachers, including college professors and post-college instructors, for shaping his craft. Their guidance helped him navigate both the technical and emotional demands of the profession, providing tools he still draws upon today.
Beyond the camera and stage, Rick’s personal life in Phoenix reflects a warm, grounded balance. He is a husband, father, and homeowner who works as a Behavioral Health Technician, bringing compassion and professionalism to his day job. His skills extend far beyond acting: he is an experienced musician who gigs with his band across the Valley, a singer, an improviser, and even a practitioner of magic. Other talents include horseback riding, firearms handling, motorcycling, and a distinctive moustache that adds character to many of his looks. These diverse abilities—along with a current passport, driver’s license, and experience in law enforcement and the medical field—make him a versatile presence on set. “I am New York trained [with] a passion for performing,” his profile notes. “I am also a working musician, gigging with my band all over the valley. I bring a sense of excitement and professionalism to every set!”
One particularly memorable on-set moment from his 1980s breakthrough captures the humorous side of the craft. Filming a death scene in the low-budget horror film, Rick was to be decapitated by a monster. A fake head was attached to his neck with blood tubes running along the sides. On the first take, the jacket covered the tubes, and the fake blood ran down his entire body, leaving him covered in sticky stage blood. The mishap became a story he still recounts with a chuckle, illustrating how even the messiest moments can become cherished memories.
Rick’s favorite project remains that same 1980s cult film, which has developed a dedicated following over the years. Fans continue to celebrate its campy charm, and Rick is set to participate in related events sometime in the new year. “I guess it would have to be that low budget film I did back in the 80s cause it’s developed quite a [cult] following,” he says. “As a matter of fact, I’ll be doing one of those kinds sometime in the new year for that film.” The enduring legacy of Class of Nuke ‘Em High serves as both a nostalgic anchor and a source of ongoing excitement.
The industry itself has transformed dramatically since Rick’s early days. In the 1980s, auditions happened in person, often with other actors present—an experience he valued for its collaborative energy. Today, self-tapes and online submissions dominate. “The industry has changed quite a bit from the 80s,” he observes. “Nobody was taping or submitting auditions online. Everything was done in person in-house with other people which I always thought was a real crucial part of the whole acting experience.” Adapting to these shifts while honoring the past has been part of his successful return.
Fun facts about Rick add color to his profile. His extensive skill set includes improvisation, singing, teleprompter work, and even a touch of stage magic—talents that keep him agile across genres. As a non-union actor with 10+ years of experience (plus his earlier work), he travels statewide from the Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler metro area. Standing 6 feet tall with salt-and-pepper hair and blue eyes, he brings an average build and a mature, relatable presence to roles. His Caucasian ethnicity and English-only language background round out a performer who feels authentically rooted in the American Southwest.
Perhaps most rewarding for Rick is the simple joy of being on set. “In my humble opinion, a bad day on set is better than a good day in the office any day of the week,” he states. This philosophy fuels his enthusiasm and reminds those around him why the arts matter. Balancing creativity with the practical demands of life remains an ongoing effort. “Balance is always a tricky thing to achieve in one’s life in all aspects and it’s something that you constantly have to work on,” he notes, offering a realistic yet hopeful perspective.
Rejection, an inevitable part of any artistic pursuit, is handled with perspective. “You don’t take it personally,” Rick advises. “I’m more than nothing to do this long enough to know that when they don’t want you, it’s not you they don’t want—they’re looking for something else. Just go on and look for the next opportunity.” This resilient mindset has sustained him through decades and continues to serve him well.
For aspiring artists, Rick’s counsel is direct and empowering: “Don’t wait for the breaks, you have to go out there and make them for yourself. The opportunities are out there. You have to do your due diligence and find them.” His own story—stepping away, then returning with renewed purpose—proves that consistent effort and self-advocacy can reopen doors long thought closed.
Rick Howard’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of passion. From the cult classic Class of Nuke ‘Em High to fresh projects like Immortal Echoes, from theater stages to Valley band gigs, and from a steady day job to the unpredictable thrill of performance, he continues to inspire. Readers can view more of Rick Howard’s IMDb credits here: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1084442/. To learn more about his work, upcoming appearances, and availability, connect with him through his US Actors profile at https://usactors.com/listing/rick-howard/. Whether you’re an aspiring performer or simply someone who appreciates a good comeback story, Rick’s example encourages us all to keep the creative flame alive.
