Ramon Rodriguez Talks Directing, ‘Will Trent’s’ New Style, and His Puerto Rican Shenanigans
Ramon Rodriguez is one of the most dynamic actors working today, with a range of roles that span across TV shows, films, and streaming platforms. Known for his versatility, he’s built a reputation as someone who can breathe life into any character, whether it’s the intense detective in Will Trent or the lovable, relatable characters in other works. But in recent years, Rodriguez has taken on a new challenge – stepping behind the camera to direct.
In this exclusive interview, we dive deep into Ramon Rodriguez’s journey into directing, his influence on the hit series Will Trent, the show’s evolving style, and his Puerto Rican background that continues to shape his work. For fans of Will Trent and those curious about Rodriguez’s creative vision, this article provides unique insights into one of Hollywood’s rising talents.
The Transition from Actor to Director: Ramon Rodriguez’s Creative Journey
Ramon Rodriguez’s transition from acting to directing didn’t come overnight. Having worked on numerous film and television projects, he always had a deep love for storytelling, but directing required a different set of skills and an even more profound understanding of the narrative.
Rodriguez began his journey into directing with a desire to create something truly special. While acting allowed him to explore characters, directing offered him a chance to shape stories in a more hands-on way. In fact, the actor-turned-director credits his experiences on set, working alongside talented filmmakers and learning from their craft, as the foundation of his directing career.
“I’ve always felt drawn to storytelling,” Rodriguez explains. “As an actor, you interpret the script and bring a character to life. But as a director, you get to influence the entire vision. It’s a challenge, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. You get to see the big picture—the entire narrative and how every piece fits together.”
In particular, Rodriguez’s work on Will Trent allowed him to hone his directorial skills. The show, which centers around the emotional and professional challenges faced by a complex detective, demanded a unique blend of style, tone, and pacing. Rodriguez wanted to create something fresh, pushing the boundaries of what audiences expected from a procedural drama.
Will Trent’s New Style: Blending Traditional Crime Drama with Modern Sensibilities
One of the most significant elements of Will Trent is its ability to capture the essence of a traditional crime procedural while incorporating a fresh, modern style. As the director of several episodes, Rodriguez brought his own vision to the series, changing the way viewers experience crime dramas on television.
“Will Trent is about more than just solving crimes,” Rodriguez says. “It’s about the characters, their emotions, and their complex relationships. I wanted to capture that raw, human element. The show’s style reflects that—it’s not just about what’s happening on-screen, but how it feels. How the characters react, how the story unfolds. We aimed for something cinematic, dynamic, and visceral.”
Rodriguez embraced the challenge of blending the genre’s conventions with a contemporary aesthetic. He used sharp, crisp cinematography paired with intimate character moments to create a sense of tension and emotional depth. By pushing the boundaries of the typical crime drama format, Will Trent became more than just a show about cases—it became an exploration of character psychology, relationships, and the hidden struggles people face.
The show’s unique style is evident in how it visualizes its investigative process. Rather than relying on overly stylized scenes or flashy camera tricks, Rodriguez chose to focus on the gritty realism of the cases and the psychological journeys of the characters. His use of lighting, framing, and camera movements all play a role in establishing the tone—a tone that elevates Will Trent above typical police procedurals.
“We didn’t want it to feel like just another crime show,” he continues. “We wanted it to have a heart. And with the visual style, we also aimed to make the audience feel the suspense, the tension, and the emotional stakes. Every shot matters; every movement tells you something about the story.”
The Influence of His Puerto Rican Background on His Directorial Vision
Rodriguez has always embraced his Puerto Rican heritage, and it’s no surprise that his cultural background plays a crucial role in his creative decisions. In both his acting and directing, Rodriguez brings a sense of authenticity to his work, and his Puerto Rican roots are an undeniable influence on his approach to storytelling.
“Being Puerto Rican is an important part of who I am,” Rodriguez says. “It shapes the way I view the world, and it definitely influences the stories I tell. I’m proud of my culture, and I want that pride to come through in my work.”
While Will Trent may not explicitly focus on Puerto Rican culture, Rodriguez’s heritage still shines through in subtle ways. The authenticity he brings to his characters, his choice of music, and his dedication to representing diverse voices all stem from his roots. In interviews, Rodriguez has spoken about how his Puerto Rican family’s influence is always with him, pushing him to create work that’s honest, grounded, and real.
“I’ve always had this sense of responsibility to my family and my culture,” Rodriguez explains. “It’s not about showing off or making Puerto Rican culture the centerpiece. It’s about keeping things authentic, about staying true to who I am, and infusing those values into everything I do.”
Rodriguez has a unique ability to seamlessly incorporate aspects of his heritage into his work, whether through the characters he portrays or the behind-the-scenes choices he makes. His influence on Will Trent isn’t just about Puerto Rican representation—it’s about creating stories that resonate with people from all walks of life while maintaining a grounded sense of authenticity.
Puerto Rican Shenanigans: Ramon Rodriguez’s Personal and Professional Life
While Ramon Rodriguez takes his craft seriously, he’s also known for his playful side and his sense of humor. Whether he’s talking about his latest project or reflecting on his upbringing, Rodriguez brings a lighthearted energy to every conversation.
“Look, I’m from Puerto Rico,” he laughs. “We’re known for having a good time. My family is full of characters—my tíos, my tías, my abuelos. We’re loud, we’re passionate, and we know how to have fun. We like to joke around, share stories, and laugh until our stomachs hurt.”
Rodriguez often draws from these lighthearted moments in his work. Even in intense scenes, he brings a sense of balance by tapping into his sense of humor and playful personality. This dynamic blend of seriousness and lightness has been key to making his characters—both in front of and behind the camera—feel multidimensional.
“I don’t take myself too seriously,” he says. “Life’s too short. There’s always room for fun. But when it’s time to get serious, I give it my all.”
Rodriguez’s playful spirit is not only evident in his work but also in his interactions with fans and fellow actors. On the set of Will Trent, he’s known for keeping the atmosphere light, making jokes, and fostering a sense of camaraderie among the cast and crew.
“Being on set is like being with family,” he says. “We work hard, but we also know how to enjoy the process. I want people to feel comfortable and have fun, even on the tough days.”
What’s Next for Ramon Rodriguez?
As Will Trent continues to gain popularity, Rodriguez’s career is undoubtedly on an upward trajectory. With his newfound role as a director, it’s clear that he has much more to offer in the world of filmmaking. His passion for storytelling and his dedication to authenticity make him one of the most exciting creatives to watch in the coming years.
So, what’s next for Ramon Rodriguez? He’s excited about the future, with several projects in the works, both as an actor and a director. While he remains tight-lipped about specific details, fans can expect to see even more of his personal touch in upcoming episodes of Will Trent and beyond.
“I’m always looking for ways to grow and evolve as an artist,” he shares. “There are so many stories to tell, and I want to be a part of bringing more diverse, meaningful, and authentic narratives to the screen. The best is yet to come.”
Conclusion: Ramon Rodriguez’s Unique Impact on ‘Will Trent’
Ramon Rodriguez has proven himself as a multi-talented artist who is not only an incredible actor but also a visionary director. His work on Will Trent reflects his unique style, which blends traditional crime drama with modern sensibilities, all while remaining deeply connected to his Puerto Rican roots.
With his passion for storytelling, commitment to authenticity, and playful personality, Rodriguez has left an indelible mark on the series and on his fans. As he continues to explore new creative avenues, there’s no doubt that Ramon Rodriguez will keep captivating audiences and shaping the future of television.
Stay tuned for more Will Trent and beyond, as Ramon Rodriguez’s creative journey is just getting started.
