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Take a closer look at some of Hollywood&#39;s top-tier talent at the beginning of their careers.

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Ray Buffer, born in 1969 as Raymond Ernest Buffer, Jr., is a multifaceted American talent renowned for his contributions to both the entertainment industry and the world of music. Growing up in the vibrant landscapes of Greenacres, Florida, he was raised by Delana and Raymond Ernest Buffer, Sr., who instilled in him a love for creativity and performance. His ancestry, rooted in Europe, provided a rich cultural backdrop for his artistic endeavors.

At just 29 days old, Buffer was welcomed into the Buffer family through adoption, embarking on a journey to discover his roots later in life. In 2003, after a diligent search, he reunited with his birth mother, Patricia Odell, expanding his family to include newfound maternal relatives. Despite this reunion, his birth father's identity remains a mystery, adding layers to his personal narrative.

Buffer's artistic journey began with music, as he displayed a natural talent for the violin from an early age, later mastering various instruments. However, it was the theater that captured his heart during his formative years at John I Leonard High School in Lake Worth, Florida. There, he flourished in theatrical productions, showcased his musical prowess in jazz choirs, and exhibited his instrumental skills on the viola, piano, and string bass.

Continuing his pursuit of the arts, Buffer pursued higher education at Palm Beach State College and Florida Atlantic University, ultimately earning a BFA in musical theatre in 1994. Throughout the 1990s, he honed his craft through performances in regional and dinner theater productions, showcasing his versatility as both a performer and director.

In 1992, Buffer married the talented writer and actress Roberta McMillan, with whom he embarked on various creative projects, including the 2003 production and direction of the acclaimed documentary film "Rats & Bullies." This endeavor shed light on relational aggression and its devastating consequences, earning accolades at film festivals and sparking a nationwide dialogue on bullying. They separated in 2009, and finalized the divorce by 2019.

Relocating to Huntington Beach, California, in 1999, Buffer expanded his artistic horizons, delving into television and film with guest-starring roles that showcased his range as an actor. His career soared to new heights with notable appearances, including a memorable stint on the acclaimed series "Curb Your Enthusiasm."

In 2007, fueled by a passion for storytelling, Buffer departed from a managerial role at Long Beach Opera to establish his own theater company, The Relevant Stage, in San Pedro, California. This venture allowed him to produce an array of captivating musical theater works until 2011 when he co-founded Art-In-Relation with business partner Jonas Sills.

With Art-In-Relation, Buffer continued to make waves in the theatrical landscape, staging productions in Long Beach, Los Angeles, and Hollywood. Meanwhile, his commanding presence and resonant voice led to numerous portrayals of Santa Claus across various media platforms, further solidifying his status as a versatile performer.

Today, Buffer remains a prominent figure in television, film, and theater, captivating audiences with his dynamic performances and enriching storytelling. As a sought-after concert soloist and voice-over artist, he continues to leave an indelible mark on the entertainment world, all while calling Long Beach, California, his home.

Buffer is Represented in the USA by Judy Belshe-Toernblom and Birger Toernblom at A.R.T. Agency - Phone: 562-243-8414

He is also Represented outside the USA by Elmazi Evdoxia and Psilopoulos Thanasis at Enorama Talent Agency - Phone: +302108671322

Ray Buffer, photographed by Barry McDaniel

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