My name is Johny Ritter, and I’m an Austrian-born actor-filmmaker with Central European roots.

 

I began my creative journey by writing, directing, and producing my own projects as a way to develop my craft, before gradually shifting my full focus to acting. Rather than waiting for opportunities, I started creating my own. My short film On Waking Up, a non-verbal exploration of depression in which I served as lead actor, writer, director, and producer, screened internationally and received multiple festival awards and nominations.

 

My approach to acting is rooted in instinct, emotional presence, and a direct, immersive connection to character. I’m drawn to emotionally layered stories, psychologically complex characters, and work that creates a meaningful connection with audiences.

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​Alongside my artistic work, I spent over a decade in Austria’s cultural sector, including eight years at one of Western Austria’s leading independent cultural centers. During that time, I led an international human rights film festival, served as spokesperson for Western Austria’s human rights platform, and worked across cultural programming, public dialogue, and advocacy initiatives in close collaboration with artists, activists, NGOs, and local communities.

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Those experiences continue to shape how I approach storytelling, collaboration, and the role of art in people’s lives.

 

I’m an actor in active professional practice, building toward sustained work in American film and television.