From 'Naps' In Roll Bounce To Detective Reyes: 5 Surprising Facts About Rick Gonzalez's Career And The Film's 20th Anniversary
The year 2025 marks the monumental 20th anniversary of Roll Bounce, and the film's enduring legacy continues to captivate a new generation of fans, proving its status as a timeless piece of cinema. The movie, a vibrant ode to 1970s Chicago roller rink culture, launched or cemented the careers of several young stars, including Rick Gonzalez, who brought the charismatic, Puerto Rican character "Naps" to life. The nostalgia surrounding the film is at an all-time high as the cast and fans celebrate two decades of "Sweetwater Skating Rink" memories, making it the perfect time to look at the man behind the skates.
Rick Gonzalez's portrayal of Naps, a core member of the "Pals" crew alongside Xavier "X" (Shad "Bow Wow" Moss) and Junior (Brandon T. Jackson), was a standout performance that showcased his versatility, blending comedy and heart. Today, Gonzalez has transitioned from the 70s disco lights of the roller rink to the gritty streets of New York City, holding a major role in a primetime crime drama. His journey since 2005 is a fascinating study in Hollywood longevity, and the latest updates on his career are as surprising as the revelation that the actor who played a roller-skating enthusiast couldn't actually skate.
Rick Gonzalez: Biography and Career Profile
Ricardo "Rick" Gonzalez is an American actor of Dominican and Puerto Rican descent, known for his dynamic performances across film and television. His career is characterized by a mix of dramatic and action-oriented roles, often portraying complex characters from urban backgrounds.
- Full Name: Ricardo Gonzalez
- Date of Birth: June 30, 1979
- Birthplace: New York City, New York, USA
- Heritage: Dominican and Puerto Rican descent
- Notable Film Roles: Timo Cruz in Coach Carter (2005), Spanish in Old School (2003), Naps in Roll Bounce (2005).
- Notable Television Roles: Ben Gonzalez in Reaper (2007–2009), Rene Ramirez / Wild Dog in Arrow (2016–2020), and Detective Bobby Reyes in Law & Order: Organized Crime (2022–Present).
- Current Status (2025): Main cast member on the hit NBC/Peacock series Law & Order: Organized Crime.
The Surprising Truth Behind Rick Gonzalez's 'Naps' Role
The character Naps is an integral part of the "Pals," providing comic relief and representing the Puerto Rican community within the film's 1970s Chicago setting. His slick moves on the rink are a core part of his identity. However, the reality of filming the movie, directed by Malcolm D. Lee, was a significant challenge for Gonzalez.
One of the most unique and often-cited anecdotes from the set is that Rick Gonzalez was not a proficient roller skater when he was cast. This is a highly unusual detail, considering the entire premise of Roll Bounce revolves around the competitive world of roller skating.
The Struggle to Master the Roll Bounce
While his co-stars, including Bow Wow and Jurnee Smollett, may have taken to the skates more naturally, Gonzalez faced a steep learning curve. Fellow cast member Khleo Thomas (who played Mixed Mike) once shared a humorous story about Gonzalez's struggle, noting the difficulties it caused during production.
Gonzalez had to undergo intensive training to convincingly portray Naps' on-rink swagger. This dedication to his craft, overcoming a fundamental obstacle to his character, speaks volumes about his commitment as an actor. He managed to sell the illusion, making Naps' moves look effortless on the screen, a testament to the hard work put in by the entire cast and the film's choreography team.
The film itself, shot in Chicago, is a cultural touchstone, celebrating the disco era, the rise of hip-hop, and the importance of community centers like the Sweetwater Skating Rink. The authentic feel of the movie, despite the actors' varying skating abilities, is what has allowed it to resonate for two decades.
Rick Gonzalez's Career Evolution: From Rink to NYPD
Following the success of Roll Bounce, Rick Gonzalez strategically built a diverse filmography, moving beyond the teen movie genre. His career trajectory demonstrates a clear shift toward more mature, action-heavy, and dramatic roles, securing his status as a reliable and versatile actor in Hollywood.
The Superhero Stint: Wild Dog in the Arrowverse
For many fans, Gonzalez is best known for his long-running role as Rene Ramirez, the masked vigilante Wild Dog, on The CW’s superhero series Arrow. This role required a completely different type of physical performance—martial arts, stunt work, and intense drama—a far cry from Naps' smooth roller moves. He was a main cast member for four seasons, solidifying his presence in the lucrative superhero television landscape.
Current Role: Detective Bobby Reyes in Law & Order: Organized Crime
In one of his most high-profile and current roles, Rick Gonzalez joined the cast of the NBC drama Law & Order: Organized Crime as Detective Bobby Reyes. The show, currently in its fifth season (as of late 2024/early 2025), sees Gonzalez playing a key member of the Organized Crime Control Bureau.
Detective Reyes is a character known for his intelligence, keen observational skills, and ability to go undercover, often utilizing his background and unique perspective to solve complex cases. This role places Gonzalez in a major procedural franchise, showcasing his ability to lead a dramatic series and keep his career fresh and relevant two decades after his breakout performance in Roll Bounce.
Roll Bounce 20th Anniversary: A Lasting Cultural Impact
The enduring popularity of Roll Bounce is evident in the celebrations surrounding its 20th anniversary, which began in late 2024 and continue into 2025. The film is more than just a nostalgic look at the 1970s; it’s a cultural touchstone that celebrates Black and Latinx representation, family, and the power of a shared passion like roller skating.
The movie’s success stems from its authentic portrayal of its characters, including Naps, who proudly represented his Puerto Rican heritage. The ensemble cast, featuring stars like Meagan Good, Wesley Jonathan (Sweetness), and Nick Cannon, created a chemistry that remains infectious. Events, including screenings and cast reunions, are taking place across the country to honor the film’s legacy, proving that the groove of the Sweetwater Skating Rink still rolls on.
From the comedic struggles of learning to skate for Naps to the intense drama of Detective Bobby Reyes, Rick Gonzalez's career is a testament to his dedication. His ability to move seamlessly between genres and his current success in a major television franchise ensure that he remains a prominent figure in entertainment, even as fans fondly look back on his iconic role in the beloved Roll Bounce.
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