With his extensive repertoire of skills—and quite a bit of determination—Ryan Guzman has answered Hollywood’s call

Ryan Guzman by Mac Paris for DAMAN October/November 2024 001.jpg — Jacket by Hollywood Forever Records; sweater by Daniele Fiesoli

Growing up Mexican-American amid a vibrant blend of cultures profoundly shaped Ryan Guzman’s identity. Raised in a household that valued discipline and resilience, Guzman developed a passion for martial arts early on, which later paved the way for his transition into the entertainment business. Initially pursuing a career in mixed martial arts, Guzman moved to Los Angeles to explore modeling and acting opportunities, quickly landing his breakout role in “Step Up Revolution.” His diverse upbringing, combined with his training in martial arts, equipped him with the physicality and determination necessary to succeed in Hollywood.

Ryan Guzman by Mac Paris for DAMAN October/November 2024 002.jpg — Jacket by John Varvatos; shirt by Man by Manikan x The Embroidery Studio; glasses by l.a.Eyeworks

Guzman’s career took a significant turn upwards when he was cast as Eddie Diaz in “9-1-1.” This role allowed him to showcase not just his physical capabilities but also his emotional depth, as he brought to life the complex character of a firefighter and single father. Over the years, Guzman has seamlessly transitioned from action-packed roles to more nuanced performances, earning a dedicated fan base along the way. With “9-1- 1” stepping into its eighth season, Guzman continues to delve deeper into Eddie’s journey, drawing on his own life experiences and cultural background to bring authenticity to the character he plays.

DAMAN: You’ve been portraying Eddie Diaz on “9-1-1” since 2018. What has it been like to grow with this character over the years? And how has Eddie’s journey impacted you personally and professionally?
RG: Eddie is, in many senses, an extension of me. The character and I share so many similarities in life. The similarities make our differences that much easier to portray and empathize. I enjoy connecting with the character and exploring his humanity being tested. I’ve learned from the character. Eddie has given me a chance to live empathetically in situations I’ve come to later live in my day-to-day life. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to portray the character.

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DA: Over the years, Eddie Diaz has faced numerous personal and professional challenges. How do you prepare for such diverse and evolving storylines?
RG : I search for the truth. I then find how a person like Eddie would deal with a portion of the truth and then hide the rest. I believe everyone tells themselves the truth to an extent, but there are many lies one uses to justify bad behavior or poor choices. Most of us gain wisdom through the ever-elusive balance of both truths and lies, bumping our heads against the wall until finally, one day we learn. I feel lucky to showcase this act of balancing the imbalance through my portrayal of Eddie Diaz. It alleviates the cuffs of perfection and offers depth to the role.

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DA: How has your relationship with the cast evolved over the seasons? And how does that off-screen chemistry translate into your on-screen performances?
RG: The cast of “9-1-1” has emulated the 118 [Los Angeles Fire Department Station 118] in so many ways. We have gone through so much together and. in the end, find ourselves evolving with each other. This cast has been a blessing and life changing.

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DA: The show has quite a dedicated fan base. Can you share an experience where a fan’s reaction to Eddie’s storyline particularly touched you?
RG: An acquaintance of my father’s shared with him that he and his son—who happens to thrive with Cerebral Palsy like the character Christopher—watch the show and have found it comforting. I am thankful that the connection between Eddie and Christopher read so well that audience members who are in similar situations can connect and share something special.

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DA: You’ve done a lot of your own stunts in various projects. What’s the most challenging stunt you’ve had to perform?
RG: The most challenging stunt thus far was standing on a ledge of a 10-story window. I did it for a film almost a decade ago and at the time I suffered from a fear of heights. That fear was ultimately tested and now I no longer have it as bad. However, it was not fun by any means.

DA: And how do you maintain your fitness for physically-demanding roles?
RG: I always practice one form of martial arts or another. At this point, it is a part of who I am.

I am a proud Mexican-American man who pulls from the many strengths of my cultures

DA: How do you feel about the cultural impact of your roles, particularly in representing Latino characters on mainstream television?
RG: I’m happy to tell a good story that resonates with Latinos and other cultures. I am a proud Mexican-American man who pulls from the many strengths of my cultures. I hope that, accompanied by the other Latin American people in the mainstream, television can offer more opportunities to our culture by showcasing quality stories.

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DA: How do you balance the demands of working on a long-running series like “9-1-1” with other projects or personal commitments?
RG: It’s an ever-changing adaptation. Some days are easier than others and some days are hard. I believe in curating a quality mind and body while also implementing the importance of recovery. Creativity is something that I cultivate with extreme curiosity. My artistic outlets become avenues of opportunities.

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DA: Who are some of the actors or filmmakers that have inspired you throughout your career?
RG: Bruce Lee was the first impactful actor/filmmaker that gave me the subconscious dream of being one. Russell Crowe added to that dream later on. Since then, I’ve admired many careers. From Brad Pitt to Tom Hardy and so many more. As directors go, my dream is to work with David Fincher.

Ryan Guzman by Mac Paris for DAMAN October/November 2024 009.jpg — T-Shirt by John Varvatos; pants by Tiger of Sweden; bracelet by David Yurman

DA: You did a family comedy film called “The Present” recently, along with Isla Fisher and Greg Kinnear. Did working on the film inspire you to explore more roles in the comedy genre? Or are there any other genres you’re particularly interested in pursuing next?
RG: I would love to explore more comedy and the gambit of genres out there. Comedy has scared me over the years, due to what I felt as failed attempts at it. But my outlook has changed over the years with experience. I feel the most open I’ve ever felt to exploring the genres of great cinema.

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DA: A peek at your Instagram account shows a growing interest in photography. What inspired you to take up this hobby? And what do you enjoy most about it?
RG: Whether it’s a nightmare or not, life is a dream that I wish to capture. Photography has always interested me in that sense. Taking in the hues that clash with each other to create definition between subjects is living breathing poetry to me. I’m thankful I have great mentors that help aid my exploration of photography.

Whether it’s a nightmare or not, life is a dream that I wish to capture

DA: How does photography serve as a creative outlet for you compared to acting?
RG: A good picture is worth a thousand words. A great picture tells a whole story. A perfect photo instigates one.

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DA: And lastly, what are your plans for the rest of the year?
RG: I keep things simple nowadays. Take care of my children and continue to work.

Ryan Guzman by Mac Paris for DAMAN October/November 2024 012.jpg — Jacket by John Varvatos; T-shirt and pants by Scotch & Soda; shoes by Coolway

Photography Mac Paris
Styling Kimberly Yvette Goodnight
Styling Assistance Phillip Palmer and Jamila Wardi
Grooming Shannon Van Horn for SW Artists using Jaxon Lane

Ryan Guzman is back on the cover of DAMAN

Jamila Wardi,

Jaxon Lane,

KIMBERLY YVETTE GOODNIGHT,

Mac Paris,

Phillip Palmer,

Ryan Guzman,

Shannon Van Horn,

SW Artists