Lamar Richardson, a pioneering force in the entertainment industry, has left an indelible mark as a dual Tony Award-winning producer and accomplished actor.
Richardson's life began in the charming town of New Brunswick, nestled within the state of New Jersey, where he spent his formative years until his family made the momentous decision to relocate to the bustling metropolis of Charlotte, situated at the heart of North Carolina. This pivotal move had a profound impact on his life, as it exposed him to a new and vibrant environment that would shape his future endeavors. His parents, hailing from the picturesque island nation of Antigua, played a significant role in instilling in him a deep sense of cultural heritage, which would later become a defining aspect of his artistic identity.
As Richardson's academic endeavors reached new heights, he dedicated himself to the pursuit of higher learning, ultimately culminating in the attainment of his Bachelor of Arts degree from the revered Columbia University, a prestigious institution renowned for its academic excellence, in the year 2015.
Phylicia Rashad, a celebrated and accomplished actress and director, with a keen eye for spotting exceptional talent, took notice of Michael Richardson's remarkable abilities and subsequently selected him to portray the pivotal character of 'Sylvester' in her 2016 staging of August Wilson's highly acclaimed play, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, at the esteemed and respected Mark Taper Forum, a renowned institution in the world of theatre.
Noted actor Richardson has garnered significant recognition through his numerous television appearances, boasting an impressive resume that includes standout roles in notable series such as Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, a gripping crime drama that has captivated audiences since its premiere in 1999, and Blue Bloods, a highly acclaimed police procedural drama that first aired in 2010, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Furthermore, Richardson has also made notable appearances in other prominent television series, including FBI, a crime drama that premiered in 2018, and New Amsterdam, a medical drama that also debuted in 2018, solidifying his reputation as a talented and in-demand actor.
Not only is Richardson's television presence notable, but he is also set to make a significant impact in the world of streaming with his upcoming role in The Better Sister, a highly anticipated Amazon original series. Furthermore, he will be featured in Black Terror, a collaborative production between the renowned Richard Lawson and the accomplished Tina Knowles-Lawson, marking a notable milestone in his career.
Wendell Pierce, a renowned actor, and Sharon D. Clarke, a talented performer, joined forces with the accomplished Andre de Shields to bring Arthur Miller's iconic play, Death of a Salesman, to life on the Broadway stage in the Fall of 2022. This remarkable production marked a significant milestone for Richardson, as he made his debut as a Co-Producer, bringing his expertise and vision to the project.
Richardson's illustrious Broadway producing career boasts an impressive array of credits, with one notable example being the theatrical production of New York, New York, which served as a platform for showcasing the exceptional talents of a diverse range of artists, each bringing their unique skills and abilities to the stage.
Wayne Brady, a talented American actor, singer, and comedian, took center stage alongside the renowned Canadian singer-songwriter Deborah Cox in the memorable musical production, aptly titled The Wiz, which undoubtedly showcased Richardson's remarkable versatility and extensive experience in the entertainment industry.
Audra McDonald, a celebrated and accomplished actress, took center stage in the iconic musical production of Gypsy, a timeless tale of love, family, and the pursuit of one's dreams. Richardson, a visionary producer, had the esteemed honor of bringing this beloved story to life, further solidifying his reputation as a master of his craft.
Richardson's impressive repertoire of producing credits has also been showcased in the theatrical realm, specifically in the esteemed stage adaptation of William Shakespeare's timeless masterpiece, Othello, which boasted an extraordinary cast of thespians, including the incomparable Denzel Washington, renowned for his masterful performances, and the versatile Jake Gyllenhaal, known for his wide range of roles in both film and theatre.
Notably, alongside his esteemed contributions to the renowned theatrical production of Othello, Richardson also played a pivotal role in the conception and realization of Smash, a captivating musical extravaganza that was proudly presented in tandem with a trifecta of visionary producers, comprising the illustrious Bob Greenblatt, the accomplished Neil Meron, and the iconic Steven Spielberg, a collective trio that is synonymous with excellence in the world of entertainment.
Richardson's illustrious career in film production commenced with a notable debut as a Co-Producer for Bleecker Street's 2024 comedy, The Fabulous Four, a cinematic masterpiece that brought together an all-star cast of exceptional talent, including the incomparable Bette Midler, renowned for her captivating on-screen presence and versatility; the talented Susan Sarandon, celebrated for her remarkable range and depth as an actress; the brilliant Sheryl Lee Ralph, acclaimed for her impressive performances and dedication to her craft; and the versatile Megan Mullally, admired for her impressive ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles.
Noted thespian Richardson further demonstrated his impressive range by simultaneously donning multiple hats, as he effortlessly transitioned between roles as producer, performer, and actor in a highly acclaimed staged reading of Afrika Brown's emotionally charged and thought-provoking drama, The Fight, which was expertly presented as part of The Apollo Salon Series in March 2023.
Richardson, a distinguished CEO of Ivy Lion Productions, had the extraordinary privilege of being awarded the prestigious 2022 Front Row Productions Fellowship at Columbia University, a testament to his remarkable achievements and a reflection of his exceptional leadership, which was graciously bestowed upon him by the esteemed Stephen Byrd and Alia Jones-Harvey.
Richardson, a multifaceted and accomplished individual, has made a significant impact in various realms, extending beyond his impressive acting career to encompass his membership in numerous prestigious organizations.
Notably, he is a proud member of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA),a prominent organization that represents the interests of actors and performers in the entertainment industry.
In addition to his work with SAG-AFTRA, Richardson is also a member of the Actors' Equity Association, a respected union that advocates for the rights and welfare of actors and stage managers in the United States.
Furthermore, Richardson is affiliated with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., a historically black Greek-letter organization that is dedicated to promoting academic excellence, community service, and cultural enrichment.
Through his involvement with these esteemed organizations, Richardson demonstrates his unwavering dedication to his craft, as well as his commitment to giving back to his community and making a positive impact on the world around him.
