Richard Young, an exceptionally gifted and multifaceted individual of South Asian (Indo-Caribbean) heritage, has achieved widespread recognition and acclaim as a Canadian Screen Award-winning screenwriter and actor, exemplifying his remarkable versatility and talent within the realm of the performing arts.
As a renowned screenwriter, his impressive portfolio of work boasts an impressive array of credits, including the critically acclaimed "Overlord and the Underwoods" for both the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and Nickelodeon, the popular children's series "Dino Ranch" for CBC and Disney+, the thought-provoking drama "16 Hudson" for TVO, the intriguing "Sudden Master" for OMNI, and the emotionally charged "Maternal" for CBC Reflections.
Richard's remarkable writing achievements are a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication, as evidenced by his inclusion on the esteemed Coverfly RED List, a prestigious honor that recognizes outstanding screenwriting talent.
In addition, Richard's work has garnered significant recognition within the industry, with notable achievements including a Finalist/Honorable Mention in the ScreenCraft Sci-Fi and Fantasy Screenwriting Competition, a coveted distinction that underscores his ability to craft compelling and imaginative stories.
Furthermore, Richard's writing has also been recognized for its comedic flair, as he was a Finalist in the JFL ComedyPRO Pitch Competition, a prestigious event that showcases the best of new and emerging comedic talent.
Lastly, Richard's screenplay has been recognized as a Semifinalist in the Austin Film Festival Screenplay Competition, a highly respected and competitive event that celebrates the best in screenwriting from around the world.
Beyond his illustrious writing career, Richard has also ventured into the realm of screen acting, leaving a lasting impression with his captivating performances in various television shows. Notably, he has appeared in the NBC drama "Transplant", showcasing his range and versatility as an actor. Additionally, his talent has been showcased in the CityTV series "Law & Order: Toronto - Criminal Intent", demonstrating his ability to adapt to different roles and genres. Furthermore, he has made a notable appearance in the Cinemax drama "Jett", highlighting his capacity to bring depth and nuance to his characters. Finally, his impressive acting skills have also been on display in the CBC sitcom "Kim's Convenience", where he has effortlessly brought humor and charm to his character, solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile actor.
Richard has had the opportunity to demonstrate his impressive acting abilities on stage, taking on various roles in a range of productions. Among his notable performances are his portrayals in "Network", a production presented by the Citadel and Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre. Additionally, he has been a part of three different productions of "The New Canadian Curling Club", which have been showcased at the Thousand Islands Playhouse, Western Canada Theatre, and Alberta Theatre Projects.
Richard's educational journey was a significant one, marked by a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychology from Queen's University, a prestigious institution that laid the foundation for his future pursuits. Prior to exploring his artistic inclinations, Richard had first secured a solid grounding in the field of psychology, allowing him to develop a nuanced understanding of human behaviour and the intricacies of the human mind.
However, Richard's academic trajectory took an unexpected turn when he decided to pursue an MBA from York University's esteemed Schulich School of Business. This bold move was met with a mix of emotions from his immigrant parents, who had initially envisioned a more traditional career path for their son. Despite their initial reservations, Richard's determination and passion for the arts ultimately prevailed, setting him on a unique path that would shape his future endeavors.
