Ryan Guzman’s filmography is a testament to his remarkable range, charisma, and screen presence across a diverse array of genres. Born in 1987 in Abilene, Texas, Guzman initially ventured into mixed martial arts before making a significant shift to acting. His breakout moment arrived in 2012 with Step Up Revolution, a role that showcased not only his impressive dancing skills but also his talent as a leading man. Since then, Guzman has established a foothold in Hollywood, contributing to projects spanning action, dramas, horror, and romantic thrillers.
Widely recognized for his portrayal of Eddie Diaz on the popular procedural drama 9-1-1, Guzman has also made noteworthy contributions to the horror and romantic genres. While he may not have amassed numerous accolades yet, his ability to engage audiences and critics with compelling performances sets him apart. From his role as a tortured lover in The Boy Next Door to a veteran hero in Heroes Reborn, Guzman’s charm and commitment elevate every character he embodies.
10
Pretty Little Liars (2013-2014)
Guzman’s Role as Jake
During its culturally significant run from 2010 to 2017, Pretty Little Liars became a pop culture phenomenon—one in which Ryan Guzman delivered a pivotal performance. In the series, Guzman played Jake, a charismatic martial arts instructor who briefly captures Aria Montgomery’s heart, introducing a fresh dynamic in her love life during the show’s fourth and fifth seasons.
Guzman’s portrayal of Jake exudes confidence, contrasting sharply with Aria’s previous romantic entanglements. His real-life background in MMA allowed him to excel in numerous action sequences, setting him apart from other male characters on the show. Although Guzman’s tenure on Pretty Little Liars was brief, it was instrumental in showcasing his potential as a prominent television star.
9
Windows On The World (2019)
Guzman’s Character Fernando
In Windows on the World, directed by Michael D. Olmos, Guzman takes on the emotionally charged role of Fernando, a young Mexican man who journeys to New York City in search of his father after the devastating events of 9/11. This film explores intricate themes of immigration and familial bonds, making it a profound addition to Guzman’s body of work.
Through Guzman’s nuanced performance, he conveys a powerful mix of vulnerability and resilience, enriching Fernando’s character arc. Sharing the screen with the esteemed Edward James Olmos, their father-son dynamic adds a poignant layer to the story. While the film may not have achieved commercial success, it remains significant for its rich storytelling and Guzman’s standout portrayal, proving his capacity for deeply emotive roles.
8
Heroes Reborn (2015)
Guzman’s Carlos Gutierrez
Heroes Reborn served as a revival of the beloved NBC series Heroes, featuring a new spectrum of individuals gifted with extraordinary abilities. In this series, Guzman steps into the role of Carlos Gutierrez, a war veteran transformed into a vigilante seeking answers about his brother’s disappearance. Although the series ran for only one season, Guzman’s character resonated with fans.
Guzman’s portrayal deftly balances action with emotional depth, revealing Carlos’s internal struggles and trauma. His nuanced performance blended well within the show’s action-driven narrative, showcasing Guzman’s ability to embody complex characters. While Heroes Reborn did not reach the heights of its predecessor, Guzman’s engagement in this superhero universe allowed him to showcase his physical prowess and acting depth.
7
Notorious (2016)
Guzman’s Ryan Mills
In the 2016 crime drama Notorious, Guzman explored the intricate relationship between news media and the judicial system. Although the series was short-lived, Guzman’s performance as Ryan Mills, an ambitious producer on a top-tier news show, showcased his strong screen presence and charismatic appeal throughout its 10 episodes.
Guzman’s role diverged from his physically intense characters, allowing him to demonstrate his dramatic range. His dynamic on-screen collaboration with co-stars such as Piper Perabo and Daniel Sunjata brought depth to his character amidst the series’ fast-paced storytelling. Although it didn’t achieve widespread acclaim, Notorious contributed significantly to Guzman’s diverse portfolio, highlighting his ability to thrive in ensemble casts.
6
Jem And The Holograms (2015)
Guzman’s Rio Raymond
Although Jem and the Holograms faced criticism and box office disappointment, Guzman’s interpretation of Rio Raymond emerged as a bright element within this modern adaptation of the 1980s animated classic. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film chronicles Jem’s rise to fame and features Guzman as the supportive road manager and love interest.
His grounded and appealing performance lent a sense of warmth to the character, enhancing the film’s narrative. Guzman’s chemistry with lead Aubrey Peeples, who portrayed Jem, highlighted his capability to engage viewers beyond action-heavy roles, further establishing his versatility as an actor. This performance underscored his skill in creating authentic relationships across varied genres, making it a noteworthy inclusion among the best of Guzman’s work.
5
The Cleansing Hour (2019)
Guzman’s Max
In the horror film The Cleansing Hour, directed by Damien LeVeck, Guzman plays Max, a self-absorbed web series host caught in a terrifying situation that tests his beliefs. Initially manipulative and fame-driven, Max must ultimately reckon with the actual power behind the fictional demonic forces he once dismissed.
This film stands out not only for its gripping chills but also for its sharp commentary on society’s obsession with internet fame. Guzman’s commanding performance transitions from arrogance to sheer terror, crafting a compelling character arc that keeps audiences engaged throughout. With effective practical effects and psychological tension, Guzman’s portrayal cemented The Cleansing Hour as a notable entry in his catalog.
4
The Boy Next Door (2015)
Guzman’s Noah Sandborn
In The Boy Next Door, Guzman took a bold step away from his typical roles by embodying Noah, a charming yet menacing antagonist. His ability to shift from engaging to terrifying demonstrates his range as an actor, and his palpable chemistry with Jennifer Lopez brought an electric quality to the film. Despite receiving mixed reviews, the film found financial success, affirming Guzman’s potential to thrive alongside established stars.
3
Step Up: Revolution (2012)
Guzman’s Sean Asa
The film that propelled Guzman into the spotlight, Step Up: Revolution, features him as Sean Asa, the leader of a Miami flash mob. The movie blends exhilarating dance choreography with a heartfelt narrative that addresses social issues, making it a standout in the franchise.
Guzman’s natural charisma and physical presence shone through in spectacular dance performances. Even without prior professional training, his talent and on-screen chemistry with co-star Kathryn McCormick captured audiences’ hearts. With a socially conscious undertone, Step Up: Revolution was more than just a dance movie; it marked Guzman as a rising star.
2
Step Up: All In (2014)
Guzman’s Return as Sean Asa
In Step Up: All In, Guzman reprises his role as Sean Asa, diving into another thrilling dance spectacle. Directed by Trish Sie, this installment reunites characters from previous films as they face fierce competition in Las Vegas, raising the stakes with elaborate dance scenes and character development.
Guzman’s portrayal in this sequel further enriched his character, showcasing personal and professional challenges as he strives for success in the dance world. His dynamic with Briana Evigan, who returned as Andie West, added an engaging romantic subplot that fans adored. This film solidified his reputation as a key player in the franchise, demonstrating his capacity to both entertain and engage in high-energy storytelling.
1
9-1-1 (2018-Present)
Guzman’s Eddie Diaz
At the pinnacle of his career, 9-1-1 showcases Ryan Guzman as Eddie Diaz, a firefighter navigating the intense demands of emergency response in Los Angeles. Developed by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Tim Minear, this series quickly became a hit, with Guzman joining in its second season and quickly winning over audiences.
His multi-dimensional portrayal of Eddie, a military veteran and dedicated father, uniquely combines strength and vulnerability. The relationship dynamics he forms with characters like Oliver Stark’s Buck have generated significant viewer interest and speculation. Eddie’s storylines, touching on themes of PTSD and paternal devotion, resonate deeply with audiences, making him one of the series’ most impactful characters. 9-1-1 has undoubtedly established Guzman’s legacy in television, highlighting his adaptability and emotional range through thrilling narratives.