Who Is William Russell (English actor)? Age, Biography and Wiki
William Russell, born on November 19, 1924, was a prominent English actor celebrated for his remarkable contributions to television and theater. With a career spanning several decades, Russell carved a niche for himself in the entertainment industry, most notably known for his role as Ian Chesterton in the groundbreaking series Doctor Who. As of 2025, Russell would have been 100 years old, a milestone that reflects his long-standing influence and legacy in the realm of acting.
| Occupation | Stage Actor |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 19, 1924 |
| Age | 99 Years |
| Birth Place | Sunderland, County Durham, England |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | England |
| Date of death | 3 June, 2024 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
William Russell (English actor)'s Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
At an advanced age, William Russell's physicality may have undergone changes, but throughout his career, he maintained a noteworthy presence. He stood approximately 6 feet tall (183 cm) and weighed around 170 lbs (77 kg) during his prime. Although specific measurements may not be available, his commanding height and stature contributed significantly to his roles on screen and stage.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
William Russell's family life remains a vital and cherished aspect of his personal history. He was married to his wife, and they shared a deep bond throughout their life together. Their partnership exemplified commitment and mutual respect. As the actor focused on his career, he remained discreet about his romantic relationships, ensuring that his professional achievements took precedence over his personal life.
In 1984, he married his second wife, Etheline Margareth Lewis, a Barbadian Brazilian doctor. Enoch subsequently became an actor too, best known for playing Dean Thomas in the Harry Potter film series and Wes Gibbins in the television series How to Get Away with Murder. They performed together in the 2020 movie Executive Order.
Net Worth and Salary
As an accomplished actor, William Russell's net worth in 2025 has been estimated to be around $2 million. His wealth accumulation is largely attributed to his extensive work in television, film, and stage performances, alongside various endorsements and appearances. Throughout his illustrious career, his dedication to his craft translated into significant financial success.
Career, Business and Investments
William Russell's career began in the 1940s, and he quickly rose to fame with his impressive acting skills. He became a household name with his role in Doctor Who, which premiered in 1963 and captivated audiences for years. Beyond acting, Russell ventured into business and made wise investments, contributing to his overall financial portfolio. His work ethic and passion for the arts never waned, leading to continued opportunities even into his later years.
William Russell Enoch (19 November 1924 – 3 June 2024) was an English actor who performed as both Russell Enoch and William Russell. His career on stage and screen spanned over seven decades and he first achieved prominence in the title role of the television series The Adventures of Sir Lancelot (1956–1957).
In 1963, he was in the original lead cast of BBC1's Doctor Who, playing the role of schoolteacher Ian Chesterton from the show's first episode until 1965.
Social Network
Throughout his career, William Russell garnered a significant following across various social media platforms. Fans and admirers often celebrated his achievements and legacy, reflecting on his impact on the acting community. Although Russell maintained a level of privacy, he occasionally shared insights and memories from his extensive career, which his followers appreciated warmly.
Russell was one of the four original cast members of Doctor Who, starring opposite William Hartnell as the First Doctor, Jacqueline Hill as Barbara Wright, Carole Ann Ford as Susan Foreman and later Maureen O'Brien as Vicki.
His first involvement in the series took form in the pilot episode (not transmitted until 1991), which was later reshot and broadcast as the first episode of An Unearthly Child, the programme's first serial.
He eventually departed, alongside Hill, in "The Planet of Decision", the final episode of The Chase, which served as the penultimate story of the second season.
Education
William Russell's academic background played a crucial role in shaping his artistic abilities. He studied at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), where he honed his skills and prepared for a successful career in acting. This education laid the groundwork for his remarkable performances throughout his career, showcasing the importance of formal training in the performing arts.
In conclusion, William Russell's enduring legacy in the acting world is noteworthy. From his remarkable career and personal achievements to his family life and financial successes, he represents a beacon of artistic excellence. As we commemorate his contributions, his story serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors and fans alike.
He was educated at Wolverhampton Grammar School and Oxford University and became interested in acting at an early age. He was involved in organising entertainment during his national service in the Royal Air Force and then, after university, went into repertory theatre.
