Robert Peters on Film, Storytelling, and the Oklahoma Connection
Robert Peters: From Oklahoma to Hollywood and Back – A Journey of Acting and Filmmaking
Robert Peters, an accomplished actor with roles in iconic films such as Lincoln, Oceans 11, In the Line of Fire, and more recently Reagan, has come full circle in his career—returning to his roots in Oklahoma while continuing to make an impact in Hollywood. In a recent Behind the Scenes Oklahoma interview, Robert shared his fascinating journey, highlighting his deep connection to his home state, the lessons he's learned along the way, and his dedication to fostering Oklahoma’s growing film industry.
The Oklahoma Foundation: Where It All Began
Born and raised in Oklahoma, Robert's journey into acting started in familiar surroundings. “It all began here in Oklahoma, with a lot of great teachers and mentors,” he explains. He attended Edison Junior High and High School, where he became involved in plays and began honing his craft, particularly through impersonations. It was clear from an early age that Robert had a passion for acting, but the path to making a career out of it wasn’t immediately obvious.
“I went to the University of Oklahoma, and like many people growing up here, I wondered if acting was really something I could do for a living,” Robert admits. “But now, I think if you’re growing up here and want to pursue a career in film, it’s completely possible. The industry is really starting to take off in Oklahoma.”
This shift in the state’s film industry is something Robert has witnessed firsthand, and it’s one of the driving forces behind his decision to return to Oklahoma after decades in Los Angeles.
From Oklahoma to Hollywood: The Early Struggles
After moving to Los Angeles nearly 35 years ago, Robert faced the common challenges of starting over in a new city, even with a solid foundation in theater and film. “It was tough,” he recalls. “I had some experience, but in LA, you’re starting from scratch again. My first jobs were working as an assistant to actors like John Travolta, Ted Danson, and Kevin Bacon, and I learned a lot behind the scenes.”
Eventually, Robert’s perseverance paid off. His breakthrough came when he worked for producer Barry Osborne, who helped him land a role in Wilder Napalm, a film written by Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan. That role was a springboard, leading to bigger opportunities like Chaplin, where Robert acted alongside Robert Downey Jr. and secured his place in Hollywood.
“By the time I booked those movies, I said to myself, ‘This is it—I’m going to make a living as an actor, no matter what,’” Robert says.
Watch the full episode on YouTube.
A Return to Oklahoma: New Beginnings and Opportunities
In 2019, Robert returned to Oklahoma for the production of Reagan, a film where he portrayed Jerry Parr, the Secret Service agent who famously saved President Reagan’s life. This role marked a pivotal moment in his career as he found himself not only working on major films in Oklahoma but also contributing to the state’s growing film industry.
While filming in Oklahoma, Robert became increasingly involved with local filmmakers and the Oklahoma Motion Picture Alliance (OKMPA). “There’s so much potential here,” he explains. “Oklahoma has everything you need for filmmaking: incredible locations, talented people, and the right incentives to make it all happen. I see the future of film production in Oklahoma becoming very sustainable.”
The Impact of Film on Oklahoma’s Economy and Culture
For Robert, working in Oklahoma has been a full-circle experience—combining his love for his home state with his passion for film. He’s witnessed firsthand the economic impact that film production has on local communities, from providing jobs to boosting local businesses. “When films come to Oklahoma, they hire local catering companies, hire extras, and book hotels,” he explains. “It’s great for the local economy and also a wonderful opportunity for locals to get involved in the industry.”
As the state continues to grow as a film hub, Robert is excited about the future of Oklahoma’s film industry. “We need to keep pushing for more infrastructure and incentives,” he says. “Oklahoma has the potential to be the next Georgia or Louisiana when it comes to film production.”
Supporting the Next Generation of Filmmakers
Robert’s commitment to Oklahoma extends beyond his own career; he’s passionate about mentoring the next generation of filmmakers. He stresses the importance of education and exposure to the industry for young people in Oklahoma. “It’s important to encourage our youth to pursue careers in filmmaking,” he says. “Whether it’s behind the camera as a gaffer, editor, or costumer, there’s a whole world of opportunities here that people can tap into.”
Robert Peters' journey from Oklahoma to Hollywood and back is a testament to his dedication to both his craft and his home state. As Oklahoma’s film industry continues to flourish, Robert is proud to play a role in shaping its future, one project at a time.
