Nipsey Russell
Biography
Nipsey Russell was an American comedian. He was known for his appearances as a guest panelist on game shows from the 1960s through the 1990s, including Match Game, Password, Hollywood Squares, To Tell the Truth, and Pyramid. Russell was also a poet, reciting humorous poems during his television appearances. He became closely associated with these poems, earning the nickname "the poet laureate of television" from Dick Clark, Bill Cullen, Betty White, and others. Russell had a leading role in the film version of The Wiz and was a frequent guest on Dean Martin's Celebrity Roasts. He was born in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, on September 15, 1918, and died on October 2, 2005.
Career overview
Nipsey Russell was an American comedian known for his appearances on various game shows from the 1960s through the 1990s. He was a frequent guest on several popular programs, including Match Game, Password, Hollywood Squares, To Tell the Truth, and Pyramid. Russell's distinctive contribution to these shows was his recitation of humorous poems during broadcasts, earning him the nickname "the poet laureate of television" from his peers.
In addition to his work on game shows, Russell also had a notable role in the film version of The Wiz. His performances on television and in film showcased his comedic talents and ability to connect with audiences.
Russell's appearances on Dean Martin's Celebrity Roasts further highlighted his comedic skills and versatility as a performer. His extensive experience in the entertainment industry, spanning multiple decades and formats, solidified his reputation as a talented and engaging comedian.
Ask the Vault
Ask anything about Nipsey Russell.
Frequent co-stars
Career timeline
Full Filmography
29 titles- 100 Centre Street (2001) as Wallace Roy
- Spin City (1996) as Nipsey Russell
- Car 54, Where Are You? (1994) as Police Captain Dave Anderson
- Late Night with Conan O'Brien (1993) as Self
- Posse (1993) as Snopes
- Wildcats (1986) as Ben Edwards
- Your Number's Up (1985) as Host
- Dream One (1984) as Mr. Rip / Benjamin
- $weepstake$ (1979)
- The Wiz (1978) as Tinman
- Fame (1978) as Vinny
- Wiz on Down the Road (1978) as Tinman
- The Love Boat (1977) as Dan Manhoney
- Police Woman (1974) as Charlie Witt
- The Dean Martin Comedy World (1974) as Host
- Match Game (1973) as Self
- The Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts (1973) as Self
- Barefoot in the Park (1970) as Honey Robinson
- King: A Filmed Record... Montgomery to Memphis (1970) as Self (archive footage)
- Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In (1968) as Self (uncredited)
- The Strolling '20s (1966) as Self
- The Dean Martin Show (1965)
- The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson (1962) as Self
- The Merv Griffin Show (1962) as Self
- Tonight Starring Jack Paar (1957) as Self
- The Red Skelton Show (1951) as Nipsey Ralston
- The Red Skelton Show (1951) as Self
- The Bob Hope Show (1950) as Self
- The Ed Sullivan Show (1948) as Self
Frequently Asked Questions
What movies or TV shows is Nipsey Russell best known for?
Nipsey Russell is widely recognized for notable roles and projects including 100 Centre Street (2001), Sicko (2007), Late Night with Conan O'Brien (1993), Posse (1993).
When and where was Nipsey Russell born?
Nipsey Russell was born on September 15, 1918 in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. They passed away on October 2, 2005.
How many credits does Nipsey Russell have?
Nipsey Russell has accumulated over 29 film and television credits across a career spanning from 1948 to 2001.
What is Nipsey Russell's background in cinema and television?
Nipsey Russell was an American comedian. He was known for his appearances as a guest panelist on game shows from the 1960s through the 1990s, including Match Game, Password, Hollywood Squares, To Tell the Truth, and Pyramid. Russell was also a poet, reciting humorous poems during his television appearances. He became c...
Nipsey Russell by the numbers
Age in their best-rated roles
- 100 Centre Street (2001) as Wallace Roy — aged about 82
- Match Game (1973) as Self — aged about 54
- The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson (1962) as Self — aged about 43
- Tonight Starring Jack Paar (1957) as Self — aged about 38
- The Dean Martin Show (1965) — aged about 46
- The Red Skelton Show (1951) as Nipsey Ralston — aged about 32
What viewers say
No comments yet. Be the first to share your take on Nipsey Russell.