Landing in Hollywood is rarely a straight path, but for actor Bodhi Rader, the journey has been anything but conventional.
Before appearing in projects such as American Primeval, Dark Winds, Better Call Saul, The Equalizer, and now the upcoming second season of Sugar on Apple TV, Rader served in the Air Force and built a career in cybersecurity. Yet despite the stability of that world, he found himself drawn toward something more creative.
Speaking with us ahead of Sugar Season 2, Rader reflected on the career change that transformed his life, the lessons he’s carried from military service into acting, and what audiences can expect when Colin Farrell’s John Sugar returns.
Finding the Courage to Start Over
Rader admits that leaving behind a traditional career wasn’t an easy decision. After leaving the Air Force to pursue a master’s degree and later working at a think tank, he realized something was still missing. “I realized there had always been this nagging feeling,” he explained. “I’m not sure I’m happy doing this desk-job life. I want to try something different.”
The turning point came after meeting someone involved in theater who embodied the kind of passion and creative energy he found inspiring. Eventually, what began as a planned six-month break evolved into an entirely new career. “It took me a few more years to finally take the leap,” he said. “But I felt more alive doing this. It’s not without its struggles and uncertainties, but it’s hard to replace knowing you won’t look back on life with regret.”
The Conversation That Changed Everything
While acting had always been present in Rader’s life through movies and storytelling, he credits an unexpected conversation with his father for helping him fully commit. Growing up, creativity was part of the household. His father was a musician, but he also encouraged a more traditional career path. Years later, during a family trip, that perspective shifted. “My dad just somewhat out of nowhere said, ‘You’d be a great actor,'” Rader recalled. “There was something about hearing that from him that gave me permission to do it.”
That encouragement became one of several signs that pushed him toward pursuing acting seriously.
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| Bodhi Rader. Photo Credit: Megan Kamauoha Rader. |
Rader’s background may seem worlds away from Hollywood, but he believes many of the skills he developed through military service, athletics, martial arts, and fitness have proven invaluable on set. “I came into it with a respect for other people’s time, knowing how to work as part of a team,” he said. “And knowing that things aren’t always going to happen exactly how you thought they would.”
The ability to adapt, remain professional, and stay focused under pressure has helped him navigate an industry known for unpredictability.
Joining the World of Sugar
As for Sugar, Rader says he quickly became invested after diving into the show’s first season.
“I was drawn in episode by episode,” he said. “Colin Farrell is a powerhouse. He’s so fun to watch, and I think it’s a lovely twist on a detective story.”
While remaining careful not to reveal spoilers, Rader teased that Season 2 will push Farrell’s character even further. “This season is really going to test John Sugar and present him with a lot more challenges,” he shared. “We’ll see how far he’s willing to go.”
Learning from Colin Farrell
One of the highlights of joining the series was working alongside Farrell, whose generosity on set left a lasting impression. Rader initially expected to keep his head down and focus solely on his own work. Instead, he found a leading actor eager to welcome and support his fellow cast members. “He welcomed us to set, shook our hands, got to know our names,” Rader said.
He also recalled Farrell staying present during coverage setups to help scene partners deliver stronger performances. “When the cameras were on me, he stuck around to help deliver the lines and make it feel real for us,” Rader explained. “That really set a tone.”
The experience also gave Rader valuable insight into what leadership looks like on a professional production.
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| Colin Farrell in “Sugar.” Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. |
Asked which project challenged him the most, Rader immediately pointed to American Primeval. The physically demanding production placed actors outdoors in harsh conditions, often working with horses and large-scale action sequences. “Everything was filmed outdoors in the elements,” he said. “There was no stage work that I was a part of.”
With hundreds of performers, horses, practical effects, and extensive action sequences unfolding simultaneously, the pressure to execute every moment correctly was significant. Yet Rader found that realism enhanced his performance. “It really helped you get into the space and the character because it literally was real out there.”
It’s Never Too Late
Like many actors who begin later in life, Rader acknowledges battling self-doubt. But advice he received early in his journey continues to guide him. “This is a marathon, not a sprint,” he said.
He also draws inspiration from performers who found major success later in their careers, including Pedro Pascal and Morgan Freeman. “It doesn’t have to happen overnight,” he said. “No one’s journey is written.”
Dream Roles and Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Rader sees two very different paths he’d love to explore. The first is pure fun: joining a superhero franchise. “I love the Marvel films, and I grew up on comics,” he said. “I’d love to portray a hero or even a villain and fly on set.” At the same time, he’s equally interested in layered characters whose true nature isn’t immediately apparent. “I love characters that are more than meets the eye,” he explained. “Stories that leave people thinking afterward.”
Advice for Dreamers
When asked what advice he would give his younger self, Rader’s answer reflected many of the themes that have defined his journey. “I wish I’d started earlier,” he admitted. “I wish I’d believed in myself and given myself permission to try something.”
More importantly, he hopes others understand that creating space for new opportunities can lead to unexpected rewards. “Trust that when you open up space in your life, you’ll be surprised by what comes in,” he said.
For anyone considering a major career change, Rader encourages finding the approach that works best for them—whether that’s taking a bold leap or gradually testing the waters. Above all, he believes fulfillment matters more than meeting other people’s expectations. “You don’t have to do what people expect of you,” he said. “They just want you to be happy and proud.”
With Sugar Season 2 on the horizon and an increasingly impressive résumé already taking shape, Rader’s unconventional path serves as a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding journeys begin with the courage to start over. Watch the full interview with Bodhi Rader by clicking on our YouTube link below.