Who is Richie Akiva? Inside NYC nightlife king’s rise, arrests and assault allegations

Richie Akiva, founder of iconic New York clubs, faces renewed scrutiny following arrest and allegations

Richie Akiva, a prominent figure in New York City’s nightlife scene, has drawn renewed public attention following his recent arrest. The nightclub entrepreneur, known for founding some of Manhattan’s most recognizable party venues and for his close ties to Hollywood celebrities, has long occupied a high-profile position at the intersection of entertainment and hospitality.

According to Page Six, Akiva was arrested on Wednesday in connection with allegations that he assaulted a former friend. The incident marks the latest legal issue for the nightlife mogul, who has previously had encounters with law enforcement.

Akiva was also arrested in March 2025 after police determined he had been driving with a suspended license. He was taken to New York’s 9th Precinct and charged with two misdemeanors, including aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree and an equipment violation. A source told Page Six at the time that the license suspension stemmed from an unpaid parking ticket.

Akiva rose to prominence as the founder of popular New York nightclubs 1Oak and Up & Down. He later became a key figure in the Butter Group, a hospitality collective that included multiple restaurants and nightlife venues, alongside business partner Scott Sartiano. Over the years, Akiva expanded his portfolio with additional ventures across the hospitality industry.

In June 2022, Akiva helped launch the exclusive, members-only club The Ned in New York, partnering with Ron Burkle and Soho House founder Nick Jones. He served as the venue’s brand and creative director, reportedly drawing high-profile guests such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Rihanna, Emily Ratajkowski, G-Eazy and comedian Leslie Jones. However, by February 2024, Akiva was reportedly pushed out of the project amid alleged financial disagreements, according to a source cited by Page Six.

His business relationships have not been without conflict. In 2023, reports surfaced that Akiva had a falling out with former Butter Group associate Darren Dzienciol, with the former partners later hosting rival events during the Cannes Film Festival.

Beyond business, Akiva has long been associated with celebrity culture. He first became widely known in the 1990s as a member of Leonardo DiCaprio’s inner circle, often referred to as the “P—sy Posse.” Since then, Akiva has built a reputation for hosting lavish, star-filled events around the world.

Over the years, his parties have featured appearances by celebrities including Jay-Z, Naomi Campbell, Robin Thicke, Chris Brown, Diddy, Lenny Kravitz, Kourtney Kardashian, and numerous models and professional athletes. Akiva has also hosted large-scale celebrations in destinations such as Las Vegas, Paris, the Hamptons and St. Barts.

In recent years, Akiva has continued to host high-profile gatherings, including New Year’s Eve events in St. Barts and the launch party for his private social club, Societe, which drew entertainers, musicians, athletes and fashion figures.

Akiva has remained closely connected to DiCaprio throughout the years, with the actor frequently attending his events. As legal proceedings related to his latest arrest unfold, Akiva’s career remains defined by both his influence on nightlife culture and the controversies that have followed him.