Ryan Lochte Dives Back in the Pool, Says Goodbye Hollywood

Published December 18, 2016

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 02: Silver medallist Ryan Lochte of the United States poses on the podium during the medal ceremony the Men's 200m Individual Medley final on Day 6 of the London 2012 Olympic Games at the Aquatics Centre on August 2, 2012 in London, England. (Photo by Adam Pretty/Getty Images) (2012 Getty Images)

Since the London Olympics, swimmer Ryan Lochte has been a constant fixture on the celebrity party circuit.

Hitting up events across the country, including partying with Prince Harry in Las Vegas and catching fashion shows in New York, it seems like getting back in the pool has been the last thing on Lochte's mind.

But after taking a much needed vacation from his vigorous training schedule, Michael Phelp's rival is back in competition mode.

Letting go of his recent party boy ways, Lochte says he only embraced Hollywood to raise his sport's profile.

With his camera-ready good looks, quirky catchphrases and funky fashion choices, Lochte was able to parlay the five medals he won at this summer's Olympic Games into a burgeoning media career.

He did stints as a fashion correspondent for TV's "Extra" and “E! News,” filmed cameos for "30 Rock" and "90210," and introduced Lil Wayne on stage at last week's I Heart Radio concert in Las Vegas.

His signature persona became so popular even that Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane spoofed him on the season opener of "Saturday Night Live."

Still, if acting calls, he might consider it, saying he "had a blast" working on set. But swimming comes first.

"If it fits into my training," he said, "I'll do it."

Based on reporting by the Associated Press.

URL

https://www.foxnews.com/sports/ryan-lochte-dives-back-in-the-pool-says-goodbye-hollywood