Richard O'Brien's Biography

Richard O'Brien, born Richard Timothy Smith on March 25, 1942, is an iconic British-New Zealander actor, writer, musician, and television presenter best known for creating the legendary cult classic 'The Rocky Horror Show.' With a career spanning over five decades, O'Brien has become synonymous with eccentricity and creativity in musical theatre and pop culture. His alter ego, Riff Raff, first appeared in London's West End in 1973 and later in the smash-hit film adaptation 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show,' which catapulted him to international fame. O'Brien's unique blend of humor, music, and social commentary has earned him various awards and a lasting legacy as a pioneer of gender-fluid and avant-garde artistry. Aside from Rocky Horror, O'Brien hosted the hit UK TV game show 'The Crystal Maze' in the 1990s, further cementing his place in British entertainment history. Despite not being active on social media, his influence endures through his work, royalties, and appearances at fan conventions. Known for his wit and the mantra, 'Don't dream it, be it,' Richard O'Brien has inspired generations to embrace individuality. His net worth is estimated at $13 million in 2024, reflecting steady income from royalties and creative projects. A fun fact: O'Brien also voiced Lawrence Fletcher in the animated series 'Phineas and Ferb.' He continues to be celebrated for his contributions to theatre, television, and LGBTQ+ visibility.