Photos by Bianca Gerasia
After a Decade in Los Angeles, Rob Raco Finds a New Home in New York City, Stepping into the Former Residence of ‘RENT’ Creator Jonathan Larson
Rob, a prominent figure in the art world, was born to an art teacher mother and has been involved with music from a very young age. Embracing art throughout his life, conversing with him reveals an unapologetically sensitive nature. There’s no hidden agenda or sales pitch; he simply yearns for the truth, to share it, and to receive it.
Hailing from Windsor, Canada, just a short drive away from the vibrant musical landscape of Detroit, Michigan, Rob’s early inspiration was deeply rooted in the rhythms of Motown. Embracing his passion for the arts from an early age, he swiftly gravitated towards a career in music, eventually leading him to Los Angeles in 2014 after securing an agency deal.
In his early days, Rob and his band performed in local bars, fully immersing themselves in the life of full-time artists. Despite facing the challenges of securing sustainable gigs, Rob persisted in Los Angeles, forming bonds with fellow artists and eventually catching the eye of a talent agency that recognized his potential as an actor. This led him to New York City, where he honed his craft at Playhouse West Acting Studio.
In 2016, as Rob embarked on the intricate path of securing a work visa for the United States, his journey eventually brought him to Vancouver, a thriving center for the television and film industry. With setbacks of losing his mother and not having strong ties in Vancouver he persistently attended auditions, even for roles that didn’t align with his primary aspirations. One standout moment in this endeavor was his audition for the renowned show “Riverdale”. Initially met with skepticism as he left the audition room, it was soon supplanted by an unexpected offer to embody the character Joaquin DeSantos, a member of a local gang in the fictional town. This catapulted his career, drawing in over 1 million followers on Instagram and catching the attention of major agencies in Los Angeles, who sought his full-time presence. After obtaining his work visa, Rob returned to Los Angeles, immersing himself in auditions for major blockbuster movies and indulging in the quintessential Hollywood lifestyle.
At 27, Rob was thriving with his Jeep Wrangler, fully embracing life. Securing minor roles and rekindling his passion for music, he could often be found exploring California, venturing off-road in the Joshua Tree deserts, and enjoying the company of fellow actors and models. Additionally, Rob inked a modeling contract, collaborating with renowned brands including Fendi, Loro Piana, Hugo Boss, David Beckham Eyewear, and others.
Despite his success in Los Angeles, Rob never felt a true sense of belonging there. Yearning for a deeper connection to his authentic self, he made the heartfelt decision to move back to the East Coast, ultimately settling in Greenwich Village, New York City. Eager to reignite his connection with the unfiltered and inspiring essence of the artistic world, he aims to weave his narrative into the rich tapestry of human stories, including that of the late Jonathon Larson, the mastermind behind the iconic musical “Rent.” Now, Rob will call the same apartment and unit that Larson once lived in his own home, embracing a legacy that continues to inspire.
With a freshly trimmed hairstyle, a notable increase in muscle mass, and a proud three-year milestone of sobriety under his belt, the 33-year-old Rob radiates a newfound sense of identity and purpose. Venturing into fresh entrepreneurial pursuits, he stands poised to make a triumphant return to the spotlight, rekindling his artistic passion while staying rooted in his origins and unwavering resolve. You can catch Rob’s next movie on the big screen 100 Lies in early 2024.