Jason James Richter (born January 29, 1980)[1] is an American actor and musician. Jason James Richter is a versatile American actor, producer, and director with over three decades of experience in the entertainment industry. Originally from Medford, Oregon, Richter rose to fame as a child actor, starring in the iconic "Free Willy" franchise. His career has evolved to include a wide range of roles in film and television, as well as work behind the camera. Richter's acting portfolio spans various genres, from family-friendly films to thrillers. He has appeared in notable productions such as "The Little Things" (2021), "Last Call" (2021), and "The NeverEnding Story III" (1994). His television credits include guest roles on popular series like "Bones," "Sabrina, the Teenage Witch," and "Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior". In recent years, Richter has expanded his career into producing and directing. He has produced several films, including "Natty Knocks" (2023) and "The Last Rampage" (2017). His directorial debut came with the short film "The Quiet Loud" in 2013, which he also wrote and produced. Throughout his career, Richter has received recognition for his performances, including a Young Artist Award for his role in "Free Willy" and nominations for MTV Movie Awards. As of 2025, Richter continues to be active in the industry, with his most recent acting credit in "Final Heist" (2024).
Early life
Richter was born on January 29, 1980.
Career
Richter starred as Jesse in Free Willy (1993), a role for which he was chosen out of more than 4,000 candidates.[2]
