Versatility is a trait that seems to mark much of Russ' life and career. The son of a Navy officer, Russ has lived in various port towns across the United States, attending many different schools throughout his childhood. In the early days of his acting career, he worked various jobs, from welding and shipbuilding in New Orleans, to waiting tables, tending bar, and driving a cab in New York. "Like Alan Matthews, I've been a blue collar worker," he observes.

Russ has appeared in numerous feature films, television shows and movies for television, and has shared the screen with Al Pacino, Jack Nicholson, Burt Lancaster, Stephanie Zimbalist, Vanessa Redgrave, Lynn Redgrave, Rutger Hauer, Don Johnson, Ronny Cox and Jim Belushi. He co-starred with Belushi in "Traces of Red," and starred in "Pastime," the film that won the Audience Award at the Park City Film Festival.

His television movie credits include "Trail of Tears" with Pam Dawber and Katey Sagal. He co-starred with Lisa Hartman Black in the ABC movie for television, "Have You Seen My Son." He also appeared in "Crazy From the Heart," and the critically acclaimed miniseries, "The Long Hot Summer."

Television series credits include portraying the enigmatic Roger LoCocco in "Wiseguy"; and Russ was also a series regular on "Middle Ages" and ABC's "Capital News."

Despite his extensive film and television credits, Russ has never appeared in a situation comedy role before. "This is probably the most straightforward job I've had, working five days a week." He accepted the role of Alan after finding the script to be "very well written."

Russ studied acting with the Neighborhood Playhouse, and performed in Broadway and off-Broadway plays for ten years. Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, Russ currently lives in Southern California.

Vital Statistics

BIRTHPLACE: Portsmouth, VA
BIRTHDATE: Oct. 20
HEIGHT: 6'
HAIR: Reddish-brown
EYES: Blue

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