Michael Russell(XLI)
- Actor
Mike Russell began his acting journey in the fourth grade with school plays at Enslen Elementary in Modesto, CA. His passion for acting led him to more significant opportunities while stationed in Miami Beach, FL, with the US Coast Guard. Here, Mike was discovered by producers Al Gough and Miles Millar for a minor role in "Aquaman" as watchstander, but sadly it was never aired. The story of Mike's acting career, as he puts it. Following this, a Miami-based casting director Ellen Jacoby casted him in "My Sexiest Year," directed by Howard Himelstein, and then in "Bachelor Party 2 - The Last Temptation," directed by James Ryan, before Mike was ordered to serve overseas in Europe and Japan for the Coast Guard.
After retiring from the Coast Guard in 2015, Mike moved to Los Angeles with his son, Parker, to pursue acting full-time. He has since appeared in a variety of television shows, movies, and commercials, gaining valuable experience and seeking roles that could elevate his career to the next level.
Mike's notable credits include roles in "The Ranch," "American Crime Story," "Scandal," and many others. He has also appeared in commercials for major brands like Jeep Renegade, X-Chair, and AAA Roadside, as well as performed in theater productions such as "Fanny & Manny Tie the Knot in Japan."
With a Masters in Fine Arts (MFA) from the Academy of Art University of San Francisco, Mike brings a robust set of skills to his performances, including improv, comedy, filmmaking, as well as music, playing instruments like the guitar and bass for many years. He hopes to continue his growth in the industry, always looking for the next challenging role that could define his career.
After retiring from the Coast Guard in 2015, Mike moved to Los Angeles with his son, Parker, to pursue acting full-time. He has since appeared in a variety of television shows, movies, and commercials, gaining valuable experience and seeking roles that could elevate his career to the next level.
Mike's notable credits include roles in "The Ranch," "American Crime Story," "Scandal," and many others. He has also appeared in commercials for major brands like Jeep Renegade, X-Chair, and AAA Roadside, as well as performed in theater productions such as "Fanny & Manny Tie the Knot in Japan."
With a Masters in Fine Arts (MFA) from the Academy of Art University of San Francisco, Mike brings a robust set of skills to his performances, including improv, comedy, filmmaking, as well as music, playing instruments like the guitar and bass for many years. He hopes to continue his growth in the industry, always looking for the next challenging role that could define his career.