Richard Shelton – ‘the intricate relationship of immense talent in the fields of both acting and music’
“Entertainment and art have power. Our culture is molded more so by entertainment than any other influence.”
-Michael Landon, Jr.
Richard Shelton, born on July 20th, 1961, in Wolverhampton, UK, is a multi-hyphenate British artist renowned for his exceptional skills in acting, singing, and theatre. With a career that extends from character acting to the world of vocal jazz, he has left an ineradicable mark in the world of entertainment. Best known to UK TV audiences for his role as Dr. Adam Forsythe in the long-running British television drama Emmerdale, his career is embedded with diverse achievements.
Raised in Wolverhampton, England, Shelton’s trip into the world of performing arts was not his first route. Originally trained in international hotel management, he worked as the commercial director of Sales for InterContinental Hotels before boarding on his artistic journey.
Shelton’s withdrawal from the hotel industry led him to establish the Bridwell Theatre on London’s Fleet Street, where he co-founded the acting company ‘Breach of the Piece.’ The company focused on giving a modern twist to the works of William Shakespeare.
His acting career covers impressive portrayals, including his critically acclaimed striking depiction of Frank Sinatra in the West End show Rat Pack Confidential, which won him a nomination for ‘Best Actor in a Leading Role’ at the prestigious Manchester Evening News Theatre Awards. Furthermore, his one-man play Sinatra: RAW gathered further global critical acclaim, and he performed in London, the UK, New York, Los Angeles, and Australia.
Shelton’s presence on both sides of the Atlantic is clear through his roles in several films and TV shows. He is best known to US audiences as Arnaud in Jane the Virgin and Mr. Benson in House of Lies, while his UK fans commemorate him as Dr. Adam Forsythe in Emmerdale. His filmography includes roles in the Academy Award-nominated My Week with Marilyn, I Capture the Castle, and the Japanese cult film Joker Game. He was also nominated ‘Best Actor in a Supporting Role’ (Chicago Horror Film Awards and London Horror Film Awards) for his portrayal of Detective Forbes in the award-winning psychological horror movie Do Not Disturb. His collection is as diverse as it is impressive.
Shelton’s theatrical contributions are engraved by his remarkable portrayals of characters ranging from Shakespearean roles, including Mark Anthony in Julius Caesar and Dorset in Richard III, to modern characterizations, including Young Scrooge in Scrooge: The Musical. His depiction of Frank Sinatra in both Rat Pack Confidential and Sinatra: RAW illustrates his ability to symbolize and evoke iconic personalities.
Beyond acting, Shelton’s musical talents shine brightly. He recorded his US debut album, An Englishman in Love in LA, at Capitol Records in Los Angeles, comprising original songs and pop standards in jazz, which validate his deep musicality. He won ‘Best Male Singer-Jazz’ in the LIT International Talent Awards for ‘An Englishman in Love in LA.’ His connection with celebrated orchestras and appearances alongside the UK’s most famous Ballroom dancing stars have bolstered his place in the musical realm. Notably, he performed for King Charles III and has both sung for and shared the stage with Sir Elton John. Shelton also has a long history of performing live on BBC Radio and has performed with the BBC Big Band, the BBC Concert Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.
Shelton’s pledge to social causes is apparent in his efforts to raise funds for Breast Cancer charities, inspired by his individual experience of losing his mother to the condition when he was aged 12. He’s been enthusiastically involved in many charitable events, including the Moon Walk in London’s Hyde Park to raise funds for ‘Breast Cancer Cares’ and for fundraisers for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, also known as ALS in the US. Likewise, his motivational workshops for corporations showcase his perseverance to make a positive impact beyond the stage and screen.
Shelton’s frequent awards and nominations stand as proof of his exceptional talents. His portrayal of Frank Sinatra earned him honors, such as a ‘Best Actor in a Leading Role’ nomination at the Manchester Evening News Theatre Awards and a ‘Best Actor in a Musical’ award at the London OFFIES for Sinatra: RAW. His presentations have resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.
Richard Shelton’s expedition through the worlds of film, TV, theatre, and music is a demonstration of his adaptability and dedication. From his early days in hotel management to becoming a multi-layered entertainer, he has continually captivated spectators around the world. Shelton’s unique ability to inhabit diverse characters and genres strengthens his status as a true artistic force to be reckoned with.
“You have to have a dream. Without a dream, you can never have a dream come true!”
– Richard Shelton
