Clive Russell is a renowned Scottish actor, widely recognized for his iconic portrayal of Brynden 'Blackfish' Tully in HBO's epic series Game of Thrones. Standing at an impressive 6' 6", he has often been cast as warriors in historical fantasies and period dramas due to his commanding presence and skill on horseback.
Throughout his illustrious career, Russell has brought to life a diverse array of characters, including the selfless Norse combatant Helfdane in The 13th Warrior, the rival of Uther Pendragon in The Mists of Avalon and Merlin, the posseman MacQueen in The Wolfman, the Asgardian god Tyr in Thor: The Dark World, and the Viking King Harold Hardrada in Europe's Last Warrior Kings.
Born in England, Russell was raised in Fife, Scotland, where his family relocated after his father's demobilization from RAF Coastal Command. He initially trained as a primary school teacher before joining the repertory Octagon Theatre in Bolton and making his West End debut in 1964.
Russell's breakthrough on stage came in 1980 as the superintendent in Dario Fo's 'Accidental Death of an Anarchist,' a role he reprised three years later for the screen. He has since worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Old Vic, and the Royal Court, among others.
On screen, Russell has appeared in a wide range of roles, including the heroic and the villainous. He has played authority figures such as the superintendent in The Advocates, Murder Most Horrid, and Sherlock Holmes, as well as memorable characters in adaptations of Dickens' works, including Great Expectations and Oliver Twist.
Russell has also appeared in several British-Canadian co-productions, including Margaret's Museum, for which he received a Genie Award nomination. Other notable film roles include Oscar and Lucinda, Lezione 21, and The Wicker Tree.
In addition to his film and television work, Russell has had a prolific career on the small screen, with recurring roles in crime dramas such as Cracker and Hope & Glory, as well as appearances in popular sitcoms like Heartburn Hotel and Rockface.
When not working, Russell resides in Fife with his wife Shelagh, a theatre designer and pilates teacher. He enjoys reading poetry and playing golf in his free time.
