Brett Rickaby, the son of a dairy farmer from Shafer, Minnesota, a town with a population of merely 81, had a humble beginning that would shape his future in the world of theatre. He attended Chisago Lakes High School, where his life took a dramatic turn when he received a letter from a professor at the University of Minnesota in Duluth, encouraging him to pursue his passion for theatre at their esteemed program. This serendipitous event led him to enroll at UMD, where he initially faced disappointment, failing to secure a role in any production during his first year.
As a sophomore, Brett rededicated himself to his craft and was eventually cast in seven full-scale productions, a remarkable turnaround that instilled in him a renewed sense of purpose. By his senior year, he had achieved unparalleled success, winning the prestigious National Irene Ryan Acting Award at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the acting equivalent of the Heisman Trophy.
The following fall, Brett received a scholarship to attend New York University's Master of Fine Arts program, a coveted opportunity that would propel his career to new heights. He went on to perform in numerous productions across New York and regional theatres, including The New York Shakespeare Festival, The Roundabout, and The Actors Theatre of Louisville.
In 1995, Brett landed a significant role as Jigger Craigin in the National Tour of "Carousel," a testament to his growing reputation in the industry. On camera, Brett has showcased his remarkable versatility, taking on a wide range of roles and personas, but is perhaps most known for his chilling portrayals of psychopaths, sociopaths, and other troubled characters.
