Born and raised in North Vancouver, Canada, Andrews became a champion track runner at the young age of 10. Sidelined by a hamstring injury, Réal then turned his athleticism into a job as a stuntman. After finding success in front of the cameras in Canada, Réal decided to try his luck in Los Angeles.

He quickly added such television series as Nash Bridges, China Beach and Highlander to his list of credits. Before joining General Hospital, Andrews also completed roles in the films, Born on the Fourth of July with Tom Cruise and Rocky V with Sylvester Stallone. He briefly left the role of Taggert in 1997 to star in the syndicated television series, Soldiers of Fortune. He returned in 1998 to resume the role of the tough-as-nails detective on General Hospital.

Andrews is currently single and resides in Los Angeles. In his free time he enjoys weight-lifting, Tai Kwon Do, fishing, and working on his growing car collection.