Richard, a multifaceted individual, grew up in the Crenshaw district of Los Angeles, where he was exposed to a dynamic environment that would shape his future endeavors.
As a young man, Richard's passion for the arts led him to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. He began his journey in Europe, working with renowned directors such as Jérôme Savary in Paris and Peter Brook in London.
In addition to his work in the theatre, Richard is also a talented musician and has been a semi-professional boxer, food and wine critic, and successful stage director. He co-founded the band Oingo-Boingo with his brother, Danny Elfman, and has been a published journalist for over 30 years, focusing on food, wine, and entertainment.
Richard's impressive resume includes the publication of culture and entertainment magazine and website, Buzzine, which he founded and ran between 2010 and 2015. During this time, he produced over 275 red-carpet, music, and celebrity videos.
The accomplished director is married to actress and dancer Anastasia Elfman, and they reside in the Hollywood hills, where they are known for their underground food, wine, and performance salon, "The Barbecue Bacchanals." Richard's family is comprised of his mother, novelist Blossom "Clare Elfman", sister-in-law, actress Bridget Fonda, son, actor-producer Bodhi Elfman, daughter-in-law Jenna Elfman, niece, producer Mali Elfman, and nephew, Emmy-winning broadcast journalist Diego Santiago.
Presently, Richard is actively involved in the entertainment industry, directing films, writing and directing live theatre, and playing in the band Mambo Diabolico.