A cast member of the iconic 1990s Nickelodeon reboot, Ryan Alessi is a Chicago-bred and L.A.- based actor who cut his teeth as a part of the Windy City’s famous Second City comedy troupe. We chatted with him to find out what growing up was like, his charity work, and of course what it’s like on the set of the hit show.
By Rachel Jacoby Zoldan
What was growing up like in Chicago?
Growing up in Chicago was amazing. I recently went home, and I didn’t realize how much I missed it until I got there. Friends from my previous school threw me a beach party and it was nice to be with people who knew me before the show. We picked up right where we left off, and it felt familiar even though years had passed. It was the highlight of my trip.
What do you like the most about working on All That?
I get to play a variety of different characters. Sketch comedy allows me to make use of my impressions and accents.
Had you ever seen the older version of All That?
I’ve seen all of the original All That episodes. Nickelodeon ran a marathon and I binge-watched them for a week. My favorite skit is Good Burger because it is so iconic and Kel Mitchell is a comedic genius.
Why should our readers tune into All That?
Because there is no other show on TV like it. There are new skits and characters every week, so the audience is always experiencing something new.
If you weren’t an actor, what would you do?
If I wasn’t an actor, I would love to be a fashion designer. It is a dream to have my own line of men’s clothing.
What about outside of work—how do you spend your free time?
In the past, I have volunteered for Operation Gratitude and the Animal Hope and Wellness Foundation. I recently became involved in the Thirst Project, which provides clean drinking water to countries in need. Charity work is important because it gives me a sense of purpose, and it keeps me grounded in this industry. I am extremely fortunate, and volunteering reminds me to be humble and grateful.
What's a hidden talent or secret guilty pleasure of yours?
My guilty pleasure is watching runway shows and going shopping. I could shop all day, and never get tired of it.
Follow Ryan on instagram: @ryanalessi