Shimen Ruskin

Shimen Ruskin

Deceased · Born: Feb 25, 1907 · Died: Apr 23, 1976

Personal Details

BornFeb 25, 1907 Vilna, Russian Empire [now Vilnius, Lithuania]
Spouse
  • Kate Urkowitz

    ( Aug 26, 1939 to Apr 23, 1976 )
  • Rae Spiegel

    ( Mar 23, 1929 to Dec 2, 2025 )

Biography

Shimen Ruskin, a multifaceted artist, brought his talents to the forefront as an actor and assistant director, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema.

Born on February 25, 1907, in Vilna, Russian Empire, which is now known as Vilnius, Lithuania, Ruskin's early life was marked by the rich cultural heritage of his homeland.

As a renowned actor, Ruskin's impressive repertoire included iconic roles in films such as Fiddler on the Roof (1971),The Producers (1967),and Love and Death (1975),showcasing his versatility and range as a performer.

In his personal life, Ruskin was married twice, first to Kate Urkowitz and later to Rae Spiegel, sharing his life with two remarkable women.

Tragically, Shimen Ruskin's life was cut short when he passed away on April 23, 1976, in Los Angeles, California, USA, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.

Career

1975
1971
Shaft
Shaft as Dr. Sam
1967
The Producers
The Producers as The Landlord
1953
1950
Undercover Girl
Undercover Girl as Janitor (uncredited)
Gun Crazy
Gun Crazy as Cab Driver
1949
Mr. Soft Touch
Mr. Soft Touch as Gus (Uncredited)
1947
Johnny O'Clock
Johnny O'Clock as Dry Cleaner Guy
Body and Soul
Body and Soul as Shimen, the Grocer (uncredited)
Dark Passage
Dark Passage as Driver Hitting Kennedy (uncredited)
From This Day Forward
From This Day Forward as Artist in Shop
Crack-Up
Crack-Up as Dissenter at Art Lecture (Uncredited)
Deadline at Dawn
Deadline at Dawn as Sam (Taxi Driver) (uncredited)
1945
Hold That Blonde!
Hold That Blonde! as Russian Waiter (uncredited)
1944
Murder, My Sweet
Murder, My Sweet as Elevator Operator (uncredited)
1942
The Big Street
The Big Street as Joe (Uncredited)
1941
Dance Hall
Dance Hall as Charles 'Limpy' Larkin
Citizen Kane
Citizen Kane as Hireling (uncredited)
1940
Comrade X
Comrade X as Russian Bridegroom