Raised in the diverse neighborhoods of Queens, New York, bordered by affluence and poverty alike, Sean Ringgold gained invaluable learned experiences, morals, and values that define him to this day. His unique upbringing, being situated in such a populous place, allowed him to see firsthand what drove people to become successful. At just sixteen years old, Ringgold obtained his first job as a lifeguard. This taught him discipline, mental toughness, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. Working with others and being immersed in such a vast community showed him that navigating different personalities is effortless with just two components: empathy and humility. He learned that he does not need to be the loudest voice in the room to connect with others.
Before having ever stepped in front of a camera, Ringgold embraced the entertainment industry by becoming a celebrity bodyguard, offering executive protection specialization. During this time, he crossed paths with many A-list artists, even spending a lot of time around the notable 106 & Park. Often, creatives in the industry would offer him their professional cards, incentivizing him to expand into the craft. Eventually, he got his first big break—amazingly, from the nickname “Big Head.” He earned this name from a music video and recurring on-screen appearances that turned him into a recognizable character; this opportunity opened doors he never planned to walk through.
Despite the early success in his career not being linear, soon after this big break, he briefly pivoted into professional arm wrestling, competing at a high level and even winning major competitions featured on news outlets. It was at one of these events that he met the manager who changed his life. In rapid succession, Ringgold booked national commercials for numerous brands, including Boost Mobile and Dunkin’ Donuts. Following these massive advertisements, he landed a role on a soap opera that evolved from just a few lines into a seven-year run as a main character. Today, he stars in The Family Business, which has reached its sixth season. He successfully expanded into producing, elevating the very show he has made great for six seasons. His achievements within the industry display the importance of taking risks and trying new things.
These achievements did not come without adversity, but rather were constructed based on a simple principle, “fail forward.” Sean Ringgold understood the importance of shaking off rejection at a very young age, sharing that he faced criticism for his weight as a child. This early lesson prepared him for the harsh realities of the entertainment industry. He conveys that success is built on inconvenience, accountability, and resilience. He has come to understand that having just a few genuine people in your corner matters more than a wide circle. Ultimately, Ringgold defined success as making his parents proud.
Ringgold also firmly believes success is “Being a part of something great,” which is why, after attending his first Cristian Rivera Foundation Annual Gala, he felt inspired to join in the fight against D.I.P.G. He personally understands the position of so many families and parents, as his own son struggles with the chronic, at times life-threatening disease, sickle cell anemia. Deeply resonating with life in hospital rooms and ICUs, the foundation’s mission immediately garnered his appreciation. Thankfully, when asked to join the board, the timing felt right. He was compelled by the leadership’s passion, the shared commitment of the board, and the drive to turn loss into lasting impact for children and families.
As a board member, Ringgold provides efficiency, integrity, and connection. He firmly believes that time should be well-spent and character should never be compromised; he shares, “All we have is our word.” For Ringgold, many of his most meaningful moments with the foundation have come from watching friends and supporters become similarly emotionally invested in the foundation’s mission. He felt privileged to witness their profound appreciation of the gala after having invested so much of his own time into the cause.
For Sean Ringgold, the Cristian Rivera Foundation is more than another cause–it is a calling personal to his personal struggles with his son. For this reason, his involvement with the organization is driven by incredible compassion and advocacy. Ultimately, he has one simple goal: a cure. Beyond that, he hopes to see the foundation raise significant funds, bring in people who truly want to make a difference, and help research progress. His message to families facing this unimaginable diagnosis is one of hope: “Never lose faith. We are here fighting to help find a cure. You are not alone in your struggle.”
I think it is a safe bet to say Sean Ringgold is going to be an unstoppable force in the fight against D.I.P.G.