Richard Zapien
Director/Writer/Actor/Editor
Richard is an award-winning film director, producer, writer, and editor with a passion for storytelling that spans over 25 years. He has dedicated his life to the art of filmmaking, continuously pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation.
Richard’s journey began with an old Hi8 video camera purchased from a yard sale and a determination to bring his visions to life using two VCRs to cut scenes together. His early experiments ignited a passion that has grown into a successful career. Today, Richard is not only an accomplished filmmaker but also the co-founder of the wildly popular YouTube channel, “The Kid Squad.” With nearly half a million subscribers and millions of watch time hours, “The Kid Squad” has become a beloved source of entertainment and laughter for audiences worldwide.
One of Richard’s proudest moments came when his film submission won Ellen DeGeneres’ 12 Days of Christmas challenge. This incredible achievement led to an invitation to the Ellen DeGeneres show, where Richard and his team were treated to an unforgettable experience, including a visit to the Warner Brothers Studios, and a chance to be backstage before filming.
Richard’s work has not gone unnoticed. He has received an “Honorable Mention” for his contributions to the film industry, a testament to his dedication and talent. Despite these accolades, Richard remains grounded and focused on his ultimate dream: to bring joy and entertainment to people around the world.
Richard’s love for creating films is at the heart of everything he does. His journey is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the power of dreams. Richard Zapien is a storyteller, a visionary, and an entertainer who will never give up on his dreams.