David Irving Russell was an American film director, screenwriter, and producer known for his unique style, memorable characters, and ability to blend humor and drama.
Throughout his career, he has won critical acclaim and several prestigious awards, including two British Academy Film Awards and a Golden Globe Award. Nominated for five Academy Awards, Russell is recognized as a talented and influential filmmaker.
contour
- Full name: David Owen Russell
- Stage name: David O. Russell
- Date of birth: August 20, 1958 (66 years old)
- Birthplace: Manhattan, New York
- Nationality: United States
- Occupation: Film director, screenwriter, producer
- Height: 1.8m
- Parents: Bernard and Maria Russell
- Siblings: unknown
- Spouse: Janet Grillo (m. 1992–2007),
- Children: 2 years old, Matthew Antonio Grillo Russell and Leo Russell
- Relationship status: Married
- Net worth: $40 million
early life and education
David O. Russell was born on August 20, 1958, in Manhattan, New York, and was raised by his parents, Bernard Russell and Maria Russell . His father is the vice president of sales and his mother is a secretary. Russell attended public schools in Mamaroneck, New York, and later studied literature and political science at Amherst College, graduating with honors. In 2002, he received an honorary degree from Amherst University.
Profession
Russell’s career began in independent films in the 1980s, where he showcased his unique voice. His early works such as spanking monkey (1990) and flirting with disaster (1996) established his status in the film industry.
he achieved mainstream success fighter (2010), silver linings Playbook (2012), and American Hustle (2013), nominated for multiple Academy Awards. Known for his ability to blend humor, drama and thought-provoking themes, Russell made a major impact in Hollywood.
Main videos:
- fighter (2010): A sports drama about boxer Mickey Ward.
- silver linings Playbook (2012): A romantic comedy about mental health.
- American Hustle (2013): A crime drama involving an FBI sting.
- joy (2015): A biographical drama about inventor Joey Mangano.
- amsterdam (2022): A period drama about friends trapped in a murder mystery.
Awards and nominations
Academy Awards:
- Nominated: Best Director fighter, silver linings Playbook, American Hustle
- Nominated: Best Original Screenplay (American Hustle)
- Nominated: Best Screenplay, Adapted Screenplay (silver linings Playbook)
Golden Globe Awards:
- Nominated: Best Director (fighter, silver linings Playbook, American Hustle)
- Nominated: Best Screenplay (American Hustle, silver linings Playbook)
British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA):
- Won: Best Adapted Screenplay (silver linings Playbook, American Hustle)
- Nominated: Best Director (silver linings Playbook, American Hustle)
Independent Spirit Award:
- Won: Best Director and Best Screenplay (silver linings Playbook)
- Won: Best Debut (spanking monkey)
Other awards:
- National Society of Film Critics Award for Best Screenplay (silver linings Playbook, American Hustle)
- New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Director (silver linings Playbook)
- Satellite Awards for Best Director and Best Screenplay (silver linings Playbook)
personal life
Russell was married to Janet Grillo from 1992 to 2007, with whom he has a son, Matthew Antonio Grillo Russell. He is currently married to Holly Davis and has an adopted son, Leo Russell. Russell has faced legal issues and controversy for his behavior on set, but he remains an influential figure in Hollywood. He is also a mental health advocate and supports autism research.
film chronology
- spanking monkey (1990): A dark comedy about family dynamics.
- flirting with disaster (1996): Comedy about a man’s search for his biological parents.
- three kings (1999): A war comedy set in Iraq.
- I Heart Huckabee (2004): A philosophical comedy.
- fighter (2010): Biographical sports drama.
- silver linings Playbook (2012): Romantic comedy.
- American Hustle (2013): Crime drama.
- joy (2015): Biographical drama.
- amsterdam (2022): A period drama involving a murder mystery.
net worth
David O. Russell’s net worth is estimated at $40 million, reflecting his successful film career and his status as one of Hollywood’s most talented directors.
