Today we’d like to introduce you to Rio Summers
Hi Rio, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m Rio Summers, born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, and I’ve always known I wanted to be in the entertainment industry. At just five years old, watching Britney Spears perform made me realize I had to be a star. By second grade, I was already sneaking into the choir teacher’s classroom to ask if I could join, and that determination set the tone for my future in music, acting, and performance.
Through high school, I became known for my versatile singing voice and acting, earning recognition from both peers and faculty. After graduation, I began doing photoshoots, which eventually caught the attention of casting directors. In 2012, I made my first attempt at America’s Next Top Model, but was turned away due to the overwhelming competition. Then, in 2013, I was diagnosed with a brain tumor, but after emergency surgery and a quick recovery, I knew I had to chase my dreams with even more urgency.
In 2014, I took a leap of faith and moved to Los Angeles with just $850 and a big dream. It was a tough start, working in nightclubs to make ends meet while pursuing modeling. But after signing with Bella Agency in 2016, I began gaining traction in the modeling world.
In 2017, I got a life-changing message from a casting director asking me to join America’s Next Top Model. After a rigorous selection process, I became one of the final 15 contestants, and the show aired in 2018. That moment transformed my life, launching me into the public eye as a model. Since then, I’ve walked runways for top designers, attended celebrity events, and started my own coaching business, helping other models land major opportunities.
While modeling has been my primary focus, I’ve also pursued acting, appearing in Tubi movies like Vicious Murder and The Rideshare Killer. I’m currently working on music with a Grammy-winning producer, with plans to release new songs in 2025.
After a mental health diagnosis in 2022, I’ve become passionate about raising awareness and using my platform to support others in their own journeys. My life has been a mix of triumphs and challenges, but I’m more determined than ever to keep pushing forward and inspiring others along the way.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road hasn’t been smooth by any means. I struggled with image issues, I made very irrational decisions at times, and suffered with my mental health. I was told I was “too big” to model by a very famous modeling agency, which led me to have an eating disorder for a few years. I’ve battled a brain tumor that was supposed to kill me on top of trying to control my Trichotillomania – a hair pulling disorder. I lost my Instagram with 80k followers because of a terrible romantic relationship. I’m trying to get Hollywood to see me as more than just a reality star but an actual actress. So no, getting here hasn’t been easy.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m an actress, model, coach, and singer-songwriter, balancing these roles with passion and purpose. I’m best known for my work in modeling and acting, and I specialize in coaching and developing models in commercial, runway, and editorial modeling.
I’m most proud of the growth I’ve seen in my career, especially in my photo shoots, which reflect my evolution as a creative. What sets me apart is my vibrant personality and, more importantly, my story—a journey of resilience and transformation that I hope inspires others to chase their dreams.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I think it’s so important to take risks. At least once in your life. It’s better to try and fail than to never attempt whatever it is you’re looking to do at all. I’ve taken many major risks from moving to LA with little money, working with people I did not know or necessarily trust, and leaving my job as a receptionist to be on a television show. That’s just a few – we could be here all day. The bottom line is without taking these risks people would not know who Rio Summers is today.
Pricing:
- Coaching sessions: $100 per 1 hour session. I am offering a 4 session special right now for $350.
- Rate: $1,500+ per day shoot, depending on the job. I also have an hourly rate of $100.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @itsriosummers
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialriosummers
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/riosummers7838
Image Credits
@fgrphoto, @erinimages, @anit_cuts
