Russell Hornsby was born in Oakland, California. From the beginning, he was interested in Theatre and acting. So he attended Boston University with advice from his highschool drama teacher. After graduation, he studied at Oxford University's British Academy of Dramatic Arts. He then moved to New York City and won leading roles in "To Kill a Mockingbird", "Joe Louis Blues", and "Six Degrees of Separation".
After his stint with theater, he transitioned into television and film, with recurring roles in "Haunted" as Detective Marcus Bradshaw and "Gideon's Crossing" Chief Resident Dr. Aaron Boise. He also played running back Leon Taylor in ESPN's drama series Playmakers. On the big screen, he had the lead roles in the movies "Big Fat Liar" and "Keep the Faith, Baby."
He currently lives in Los Angeles, California while starring in the Lincoln Heights.
