Who played older Little Ricky Ricardo on 'I Love Lucy'?

Richard Keith played the older Little Ricky Ricardo on *I Love Lucy*.

Richard Keith was the professional name used by Keith Thibodeaux, the child actor and musician who portrayed Little Ricky after the character was aged into an older child. He joined the series during its sixth and final season, bringing genuine musical ability—especially as a drummer—to the role.

The answer can be confusing because Little Ricky was portrayed by several young actors at different ages. Earlier appearances used other children, including twins, while Thibodeaux played the older, speaking version seen in later episodes. He also continued as Little Ricky in *The Lucy–Desi Comedy Hour*.

Thibodeaux’s real surname was considered difficult to pronounce for television audiences, so Desi Arnaz suggested the screen name Richard Keith. As a result, “Richard Keith” and “Keith Thibodeaux” identify the same performer, not two different older Little Rickys. His musical talent also made storylines about Little Ricky learning drums especially natural.