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Nipsey RussellAmerican comedian
Date of Birth: 15.09.1918
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Military Service
- Comedy Beginnings
- Television Success
- Film and Stage
- Later Life and Legacy
Early Life and Military Service
Julius "Nipsy" Russell was born on September 15, 1918, in Atlanta, Georgia. He attended Booker T. Washington High School and briefly studied at the University of Cincinnati in 1936. During World War II, Russell served as a medic in the United States Army, returning to Europe in 1945 as a lieutenant.
Comedy Beginnings
Russell's entertainment career began in the 1940s as a waiter at a roadside restaurant. He discovered his comedic talent by making customers laugh, increasing his tips. In the 1950s, he began performing regularly in clubs and released several comedy albums.
Television Success
Nipsy Russell became renowned for his appearances on numerous American television game shows from the 1960s to 1990s. He was a frequent guest on "Match Game," "Password," "Hollywood Squares," "To Tell the Truth," and "Pyramid." His signature style included reciting short humorous poems during the broadcasts, earning him the nickname "television's poet laureate" from Dick Clark, Bill Cullen, and Betty White.
Film and Stage
In addition to his television career, Russell starred as the Tin Man in Sidney Lumet's film adaptation of the musical "The Wiz," also featuring Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. He also appeared in the film "Car 54, Where Are You?" reprising his role as New York City police officer Dave Anderson.
Later Life and Legacy
In the 1970s, Russell became a regular on the sitcom "Barefoot in the Park" and frequently appeared on "The Dean Martin Show" and "Dean Martin's Comedy World." He passed away on October 2, 2005, in New York City, after battling stomach cancer. His ashes were scattered over the Atlantic Ocean.
Russell made history as the first African American to be a regular panelist on game shows, breaking down racial barriers in the entertainment industry. His witty poems and infectious humor left an indelible mark on American television and comedy.
