Russell was born on Homestead Air Force Base and grew up in St. Petersburg, Florida. His first acting experience came in 7th grade, playing the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz. He continued acting throughout high school, passing up a theatre arts scholarship to join the Army after becoming a father his senior year. Peace time provided a unique opportunity as he soon began performing regularly at the esteemed Fort Bragg Playhouse. By the end of his enlistment he had earned his Actor's Equity card and moved to N