Richard's life began in Aberdeen, South Dakota, a city that would significantly influence his artistic inclinations, setting the stage for his future pursuits. His early years were marked by a profound impact from his mother, Cynthia Banker (Schlepp),a dedicated and passionate school teacher, whose unwavering dedication to her students undoubtedly instilled in Richard a sense of discipline and a love for learning.
Richard's extraordinary flair for performance was strikingly evident from a remarkably young age, as he began to showcase his exceptional abilities on stage, a clear indication of his precocious talent. At the tender age of just five years old, he shared the spotlight with his sister Crissy, and together they achieved a remarkable first prize in a local talent competition, a notable accomplishment that would serve as a precursor to his future endeavors in the world of entertainment.
