Get more backstage buzz about our TV hosts at theShoppingChannelBLOG.com

From a very young age, all Richard ever wanted to do was be in front of a camera. Born in Niagara Falls, he moved to Toronto to fulfill his dreams of becoming a movie star and, like so many other aspiring actors, he spent most of his time waiting tables and going to acting classes until a fellow employee at the restaurant he was working at helped him get a job at TV Ontario. Although it was on the wrong side of the camera to be Richard’s dream job, it was foot in the show biz door.

While at TVO Richard continued to do modeling work and act whenever the opportunity came along until that one fateful day. Just like in a Hollywood movie script, Richard was “discovered” by Eva, a fellow actor, and then host at The Shopping Channel. While working with him on the set of a corporate video, Eva encouraged Richard to apply for a position as a host. With his natural ease in front of the camera, sincerity and genuine gift of the gab, Richard landed the job and has been in front of the camera with The Shopping Channel ever since.

Although Richard enjoys hosting a variety of shows, his favourites are fitness shows and anything to do with cooking. “I love to cook and entertain friends,” says Richard. “In fact, I even have what I call my Signature Meal. It consists of a fabulous pureed soup, Marsala chicken, roasted veggies and my newest favourite creation, cheesecake.”

“Everything can be prepared the day before,” explains Richard, “so I can enjoy sipping some wine with my friends and not have to worry about cooking.”

What does the future hold in store for him? According to Richard, that would be “Lots and lots of travel!” Currently his favourite place to go is Punta Cana but he loves any place warm with a shady beach and warm tropical winds. Sounds good to us!