Biography

Rich Rotella is a dynamic force in entertainment, effortlessly blending comedic brilliance with dramatic depth to captivate audiences. His remarkable ability to embody over 26 distinct characters has made him an invaluable asset to productions and a rising star in Hollywood.

Honed in improvisation at the prestigious Groundlings and mentored by Eric Morris, the acclaimed acting coach to legends like Johnny Depp and Jack Nicholson, Rich delivers unmatched versatility. From quirky character roles to commanding leading performances, his unpredictable energy and magnetic screen presence are truly extraordinary.

Rich’s career highlights include starring in Lionsgate’s comedy The Newest Pledge (2010), sharing the screen with the iconic Betty White in a national TIDE Laundry commercial, and writing, directing, and starring in the original feature film Marlo Lasker (2020). His bold creativity shines in his directorial medical documentary Taller, which chronicles his transformative Limb Lengthening procedure in 2022, adding 3 inches to his height.

A seasoned stand-up comedian, Rich commands stages at premier venues like The Comedy Store in Los Angeles, Vulcan Gas Company in Austin, and Resorts World Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, delivering sharp wit and infectious energy. His passion for sketch comedy fuels his dream of joining the cast of Saturday Night Live or a similar iconic show.

Born and raised in Maryland, Rich graduated with honors from Northwest High School and earned a BS in Electronic Media & Film from Towson University, graduating Magna Cum Laude. At Towson, he was inducted into Alpha Epsilon Pi, the world’s leading Jewish fraternity, and served on its Executive Board. An adventurer at heart, he celebrated high school graduation by skydiving from 15,000 feet with his father, Tom, in Richmond, Virginia.

Rich’s vibrant personality has forged friendships with industry talents like Dohn Norwood (Hell on Wheels) and Chris Carmack (Shark Night), whom he serendipitously met at a Maryland summer camp in their youth. His love for storytelling is matched by eclectic passions—raising an iguana named Spikey for 11 years, excelling in sports like paintball, wrestling, and golf, and retreating to his beloved Cape Hatteras, NC, to unwind.

Proud of his Italian-British heritage with a trace of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry (uncovered through genetic testing in 2022), Rich carries a deep connection to his roots. His relentless pursuit of excellence earned him the AEPi Founders Day Talent Show Popular Vote (2020) and membership in the National Society of Collegiate Scholars.

Whether commanding the stage, crafting unforgettable characters, or pushing creative boundaries, Rich Rotella’s passion for dynamic storytelling is undeniable. Experience his talent live or stream his work online—you’ll be glad you did.

Biography by Greg Budion