Ricko Dupri Sample has built a career defined by versatility, innovation, and resilience. As a writer, filmmaker, musician, and legal advocate, Sample’s journey is a testament to the power of storytelling across multiple disciplines. His work in literature, film, and music has garnered recognition for its depth, originality, and cultural significance, while his legal studies equip him with the tools to advocate for creative professionals navigating the complexities of intellectual property rights.
Sample’s foray into storytelling began with an unexpected turn. Initially drawn to fields such as science and acting, he never envisioned becoming an author. However, his perspective shifted in 2018 when he discovered the Bigfoot Script Challenge, a screenwriting competition that sparked his passion for writing. Inspired by his mother’s stories about Bigfoot, he crafted a TV pilot that he later adapted into his debut book, Bigfoot Untold. Released in December 2018 through Tellwell Talent, the novel introduced readers to the mysterious town of Crowded Lake, blending folklore with a coming-of-age narrative.
Following the success of his first book, Sample expanded his literary repertoire with The Three Mysterious Tales, a collection of stories inspired by Indonesian folklore and real-life events. Notably, he wrote this book at just 14 years old while in his second year of undergraduate studies. His third book, Refuse to Lose, took a deeply personal approach, chronicling his father’s battle with stage-4 bladder cancer, COPD, a traumatic car accident, and legal struggles that nearly uprooted their family. This experience heightened Sample’s awareness of legal injustices and set him on a path toward legal advocacy.
Sample’s academic and artistic pursuits have been marked by an early commitment to excellence. He earned an Associate’s Degree in Visual & Performing Arts from Green River College while simultaneously completing his high school education. In 2019, he relocated to California to study at the New York Film Academy (NYFA), where he refined his skills in acting, screenwriting, and filmmaking. However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted his studies, prompting him to explore new creative avenues. During this time, he shifted his focus to music production, releasing four instrumental albums—First, Summer, Enjoy, and Sunset. Each album showcases a distinct artistic vision, reflecting his evolving approach to storytelling through sound.
Despite the challenges of independent music publishing, Sample remained undeterred. He encountered legal hurdles related to distribution and artist rights, which deepened his interest in intellectual property law. Determined to better understand the legal frameworks governing creative industries, he pursued a degree in legal studies at American Public University System (APUS). His academic journey culminated in July 2024, when he returned to NYFA to complete his studies, graduating Summa Cum Laude in August 2024.
Through his multidisciplinary approach, Sample has distinguished himself as a creator who not only produces compelling narratives but also seeks to protect the rights of artists. His work bridges the gap between storytelling and legal advocacy, offering a unique perspective on the challenges faced by independent creators. His literary contributions help bring underrepresented stories to wider audiences, while his music and film projects continue to push creative boundaries.
“What sets me apart is my ability to navigate both the artistic and legal landscapes,” Sample explains. “Many creators focus solely on their craft, but I’ve made it my mission to understand the legal complexities that impact independent artists. My goal is to ensure that writers, musicians, and filmmakers have the protections and opportunities they deserve.”
As Sample looks to the future, he remains committed to merging creativity with legal advocacy. Whether through books, films, music, or law, his work is driven by a desire to inspire, challenge, and uplift others. His journey—from publishing books as a teenager to studying at NYFA and advocating for artist rights—exemplifies the power of perseverance and innovation.
To learn more about Ricko Dupri Sample and his work, visit his official platforms, including his Website, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Amazon Music.