Russell Williams II is a famous American sound engineer known for his outstanding work in the film industry.
He is famous for being the first African American to win multiple Academy Awards in the Best Sound category.
His awards include Oscars for his sound work in the films Glory (1989) and Dances with Wolves (1990).
Williams’ technical skills and attention to detail have made him a respected figure in Hollywood. His career spanned several decades.
File
- Full name: Russell Williams II
- Date of birth: October 14, 1952
- Age: 72 years old
- Gender: Male
- Place of birth: Washington, DC, USA
- Nationality: American
- Occupation: Sound engineer, professor
- Height: Not applicable
- Parents: Not applicable
- Siblings: Not applicable
- Spouse: Renee Williams
- Children: Myles Candace Williams, Khemet Ellison Williams
- Relationship status: Married
- Religion: Not applicable
- Ethnicity: African American
- Net worth: 5 million USD
Early life and education
Russell Williams II, now 72 years old, was born on October 14, 1952 in Washington, DC. He grew up in a culturally rich environment surrounded by the vibrant history of African American civil rights activism.
His early exposure to art and music significantly shaped his future career. Williams attended American University in Washington, DC, where he completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in film and media arts.
This education laid the foundation for his exceptional skills in recording and mixing, which he honed over decades in the film industry.
Personal life
Russell Williams II is married to Renee Williams. From his previous marriage, he has two children: Myles Candace Williams and Khemet Ellison Williams.
Throughout her career, Williams has tried to balance her personal and professional lives, keeping her family life relatively private.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Williams is a full-time professor at American University, where he was Distinguished Artist in Residence in the School of Communication.
Career
Russell Williams II began his career in sound engineering in the 1970s. Over time, his technical expertise helped him make some of the most iconic films in American cinema. He won his first Oscar for Best Sound for Glory in 1989, followed by a second Oscar for Dances with Wolves in 1990.
These consecutive wins cemented his place in film history as a groundbreaking African-American figure in Hollywood. His work spans over 50 films, including notable contributions to Field of Dreams (1989), Training Day (2001) and The Sum of All Fears (2002).
In addition to film, Williams is also recognized for his sound work in television, notably winning a Primetime Emmy Award for his contributions to 12 Angry Men (1997) and other projects. He is an integral part of the film and television industry, working with top directors and helping to create immersive soundscapes that elevate cinematic storytelling.
prize
- Academy Award for Best Sound: Glory (1989)
- Academy Award for Best Sound: Dances with Wolves (1990)
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Sound Mixing: 12 Angry Men (1997)
- Many nominations for his work in film and television projects
Net worth
Russell Williams II’s net worth is estimated at $5 million. His wealth mainly stems from his extensive career in the field of audio engineering and academic work.
His many Academy Awards and teaching positions at American University have contributed significantly to his financial success.
Social Media
Cinema
- Field of Dreams (1989)
- Glory (1989)
- Boomerang (1992)
- Waiting to Exhale (1995)
- 12 Angry Men (1997)
- Training Day (2001)
- The Sum of All Fears (2002)
