Who Is Ken Russell? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Ken Russell was born on July 3, 1927, and passed away on September 27, 2011. Known for his avant-garde films and flamboyant style, Russell made a significant impact on the landscape of British cinema. By 2025, Russell's legacy continues to be celebrated for his unique storytelling and bold artistic choices that often blended themes of religion, sexuality, and psychological complexity. His work remains important for understanding the evolution of film as an art form.
| Occupation | Screenwriter |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 3, 1927 |
| Age | 84 Years |
| Birth Place | Southampton, Hampshire, England |
| Horoscope | Cancer |
| Country | England |
| Date of death | 27 November, 2011 |
| Died Place | Lymington, Hampshire, England |
Popularity
Ken Russell's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Ken Russell was known for his robust personality, though public records primarily highlight his artistic contributions rather than detailed physical statistics. During his lifetime, Russell was noted for his commanding presence, which resonated both on and off-screen.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Throughout his lifetime, Ken Russell was married three times, first to actress Vivian Russell (1949–1955), then to Elizabeth Russell (1956–1978), with whom he had three children. His third marriage was to Louise Russell from 1984 until his death in 2011. His relationships were often intertwined with his artistic life, influencing many of his cinematic works.
In 2025, while Russell himself is no longer alive, his relationships continue to be a topic of interest reflecting the complexities of love and life within the film industry.
His father was distant and took out his rage on his family, so Russell spent much of his time at the cinema with his mother, who was mentally ill. He cited the films Die Nibelungen and The Secret of the Loch as two early influences.
Net Worth and Salary
During his lifetime, Ken Russell's net worth was estimated to be around $10 million, primarily from his prolific career as a director, producer, and writer. Although his works faced controversy, they also received critical acclaim, which contributed significantly to his income. His films, many of which have now achieved cult status, continue to generate revenue through various media platforms.
Career, Business, and Investments
Russell's career began in the 1950s with documentaries before he transitioned into feature films in the 1960s. He is well-known for films like "Tommy," "Altered States," and "The Music Lovers," which showcased his unique vision and willingness to explore the unconventional. Apart from filmmaking, Russell's creative talents extended to music and theatre, establishing him as a multi-disciplinary artist.
Despite his death, Ken Russell's influence remains potent in modern cinema, inspiring filmmakers through courses, retrospectives, and screenings that showcase his groundbreaking work.
During this time, he started directing short films: Peepshow (1956), Knights on Bikes (1956), and Lourdes (1959). He received a lot of acclaim for his short Amelia and the Angel (1959), which helped secure him a job at the BBC.
Social Network
While Ken Russell was not a participant in social media, his works continue to spark discussions on various platforms regarding art, cinema, and personal creative expression. Today, fans and scholars alike engage in conversations about his legacy on platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and dedicated forums celebrating his contributions to film.
In 1954 Russell started work as a local-interest freelance photographer. His series of documentary 'Teddy Girl' photographs were published in Picture Post magazine in June 1955, and he continued to work as a freelance documentary photographer until 1959.
Education
Ken Russell studied at the London School of Film Technique after serving in the British Army. His education played a crucial role in shaping his artistic vision, combining technical skill with a deep understanding of storytelling. This foundation in film craft helped propel him to become one of the UK’s most inventive filmmakers.
He was educated at private schools in Walthamstow and at Pangbourne College, and studied photography at Walthamstow Technical College (now part of the University of East London).
