Ottaviano Dell’Acqua, also known by his stage name Richard Raymond, is an Italian actor and stuntman best known for his work in Italian genre cinema, particularly in horror and action films. He has gained recognition both for his acting roles and for his extensive work as a stuntman in numerous films.
Early Life and Career
- Birthdate: November 15, 1954
- Birthplace: Rome, Italy
- Family: Ottaviano comes from a family involved in the film industry. His brothers, Arnaldo Dell’Acqua, Roberto Dell’Acqua, and Alberto Dell’Acqua, are also known stunt performers and actors.
Acting Career
Ottaviano Dell’Acqua began his career in the 1970s and quickly became a familiar face in Italian cinema, especially in exploitation films. He is often credited under the pseudonym Richard Raymond.
Notable Roles:
- “Zombie Flesh Eaters” (1979): Directed by Lucio Fulci, Dell’Acqua played one of the iconic zombies in this film, which is also known as “Zombi 2.” His role is particularly memorable for the underwater zombie versus shark scene.
- “Rats: Night of Terror” (1984): Directed by Bruno Mattei, he played one of the survivors in this post-apocalyptic horror film.
- “Warriors of the Wasteland” (1983): Also known as “The New Barbarians,” directed by Enzo G. Castellari, he played the character of Scorpio.
Stunt Work
In addition to his acting, Ottaviano Dell’Acqua is highly regarded for his work as a stuntman. His expertise in stunts has been showcased in various genres, including action, adventure, and horror films. His ability to perform dangerous and complex stunts has made him a valuable asset in the film industry.
Legacy and Influence
- Genre Cinema: Dell’Acqua has been a significant figure in Italian genre cinema, contributing to the popularity of Italian horror and action films internationally.
- Cult Status: Films featuring Dell’Acqua, especially those directed by Lucio Fulci and Bruno Mattei, have achieved cult status among fans of exploitation and horror cinema.
- Contribution to Film: His work as both an actor and stuntman has left a lasting impact on the industry, particularly in the realm of practical effects and stunt coordination.
Personal Life
While much of Ottaviano Dell’Acqua’s career has been in front of the camera, he has maintained a relatively private personal life. He continues to be celebrated by fans of Italian cinema and regularly appears at film festivals and conventions dedicated to genre films.
Recent Activities
In recent years, Ottaviano Dell’Acqua has made appearances at various film events and conventions, often participating in panels and discussions about his work in the industry. He remains a beloved figure among fans of classic Italian horror and action films.
Overall, Ottaviano Dell’Acqua’s contributions to Italian cinema, both as an actor and a stuntman, have made him a notable figure in the industry, particularly in the realms of horror and exploitation films. His work continues to be appreciated by fans and cinephiles around the world.
