Richard Chaves (Poncho from Predator) shares his journey from Vietnam vet to Broadway success in Tracers alongside Gary Sinise — and the behind-the-scenes stories of training with Arnold, filming in the jungle, and building a career that honored his service.
Actor and Vietnam veteran Richard Chaves joins Taboo for a powerful conversation that spans war, healing, and Hollywood. Chaves recounts the creation of Tracers, the groundbreaking play written and performed by Vietnam vets, how Gary Sinise, David Bowie, and Robert De Niro helped elevate it, and how the show changed lives in the veteran community.
He then breaks down his unforgettable experience filming Predator — from working out with Arnold Schwarzenegger, to surviving the scorching jungle shoot, to the helicopter scenes, to the personal hat and character details fans still talk about. Chaves also shares the unbelievable story of how missing an audition for a comedy film ended up putting him in the right place at the right time to join the Predator cast.
Through it all, Chaves opens up about veteran advocacy, his cancer survival, and his dedication to telling stories that honor those who served.
A must-listen for Predator fans, military families, and anyone who loves the intersection of art, healing, and pop culture.
