Who is Riley Smith?
Riley Smith is an American actor, musician, and model, born on April 12, 1978, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Before embarking on his entertainment career, Smith was deeply involved in horseback riding, eventually becoming the youngest president of the American Quarter Horse Youth Association at 17.
His journey into showbiz took off unexpectedly when a talent scout spotted him at a mall in Cedar Rapids, landing him a breakthrough modeling gig with Tommy Hilfiger.
He used his earnings to pursue acting, making his first onscreen appearance in the 1998 NBC family show One World.
Riley Smith’s Movies and TV Shows
Over the years, Riley Smith has built a diverse portfolio in both television and film:
Television:
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Freaks and Geeks (2000): Played a recurring role in this cult classic teen drama.
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24 (2003): Portrayed Kyle Singer in the third season of this iconic series.
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Joan of Arcadia (2004–2005): Appeared as Andy Baker in this supernatural drama.
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True Blood (2014): Had a recurring role as Keith in this popular vampire series.
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Nashville (2015): Played Markus Keen, a musician, in this country music-themed drama.
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Frequency (2016–2017): Starred as Frank Sullivan in this sci-fi series.
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Nancy Drew (2019–2023): Featured as Ryan Hudson in this mystery series.
Film:
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Eight Legged Freaks (2002): Appeared in this sci-fi comedy.
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Not Another Teen Movie (2001): Had a role in this teen parody.
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Radio (2003): Played Johnny Clay in this drama based on a true story.
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New York Minute (2004): Featured alongside Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen.
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Bring It On (2000): Made a cameo in this cheerleading comedy.
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Weapons (2007): Appeared in this indie drama .
Riley Smith’s Kids
As of now, there is no public information confirming that Riley Smith has children. He has maintained a relatively private personal life, focusing public attention on his professional endeavors.
Riley Smith Net Worth
Riley Smith has an estimated net worth of $3 million as of 2025. His wealth primarily stems from his acting roles in television and film, as well as his work as a musician and model.
Riley Smith Nationality and Ethnicity
Riley Smith is American by nationality. He is of Caucasian descent, with his roots in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. His upbringing on a horse ranch in Marion, Iowa, influenced his early interests and career path.
Riley Smith Height
Riley Smith stands at 6 feet (1.83 meters) tall. His tall stature has complemented his roles in both modeling and acting, allowing him to portray a wide range of characters. Who is Felix Mallard?
Riley Smith Age and Birthday
Born on April 12, 1978, Riley Smith is 47 years old as of June 2025. His birthday falls under the Aries zodiac sign, known for traits like determination and enthusiasm.
Riley Smith’s Family and Parents
Smith grew up on a horse ranch in Marion, Iowa, where he was raised by his parents, Russ and Roxanne Smith. The supportive, tight-knit atmosphere of his upbringing strongly influenced his values and dedication from a young age. While he has been open about his parents, he has kept information about any siblings out of the public eye, maintaining a level of privacy around his family life.
Riley Smith Bio| Career
He was an accomplished equestrian and even served as president of the American Quarter Horse Youth Association at age 17. Despite a college basketball scholarship, he pursued a career in modeling and acting after being discovered by a talent scout at a mall in his hometown.
He moved to New York City, where he landed a Tommy Hilfiger modeling campaign and used the earnings to study acting. Find out More About Aaron Pierre Actor, Age, Wife, Net Worth
Career Highlights
Television:
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Freaks and Geeks (2000): Played Todd, a recurring character in this cult classic series.
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24 (2003): Portrayed Kyle Singer in Season 3 of the hit series.
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Joan of Arcadia (2003–2004): Appeared as a recurring character in this supernatural drama.
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Drive (2007): Starred as Alex Tully in this short-lived action series.
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True Blood (2014): Played Keith, a vampire with a romantic storyline.
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Nashville (2015): Featured as Markus Keen, a musician signed to Rayna’s label.
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Frequency (2016): Headlined as Frank Sullivan in this sci-fi drama.
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Nancy Drew (2019–2023): Played Ryan Hudson, a key character in this mystery series.
Film:
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Bring It On (2000): Appeared as Tim, a supporting role in this cheerleading comedy.
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Not Another Teen Movie (2001): Had a role in this teen parody film.
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Radio (2003): Played Johnny Clay, a member of a high school football team in this drama.
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New York Minute (2004): Featured alongside Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen.
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Eight Legged Freaks (2002): Appeared in this sci-fi horror comedy.
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Weapons (2007): Starred in this Sundance Grand Jury Prize-nominated film.
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Christmas in Conway (2013): Played a supporting role in this holiday TV movie.
Music Career
Beyond acting, Riley Smith is a musician. In 2006, he and Henri O’Connor formed the band “The Life of Riley,” with Smith serving as the lead singer and guitarist. The band released several albums, including The Life of Riley (2007), Long Way Home EP (2009), and Live in Hollywood at the Hotel Cafe (2010). As a solo artist, he released an EP in 2017.
Personal Life
Riley Smith is married to Ashli Robson, and they have a daughter named Shiloh Ryn Smith, born in 2019.
Quick Facts
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Full Name: Riley Bryant Smith
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Date of Birth: April 12, 1978
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Place of Birth: Cedar Rapids, Iowa, USA
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Height: 5′ 11″ (1.80 m)
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Profession: Actor, Musician, Model