Russ Tamblyn
Actor
About Russ Tamblyn
Russell Irving 'Russ' Tamblyn began his career as a child actor in the late 1940s, signing with MGM at age 12 after being discovered in a talent show. He quickly became known for his exceptional athletic abilities and dance skills, which he showcased in numerous musical films throughout the 1950s. His breakthrough role came as Gideon in 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers' (1954), followed by memorable performances in 'Hit the Deck' (1955) and 'Deep in My Heart' (1954). Tamblyn's most iconic role was as Riff, the leader of the Jets, in the Academy Award-winning 'West Side Story' (1961), which cemented his status as a Hollywood star. Throughout the 1960s, he diversified his portfolio with roles in psychological thrillers like 'The Haunting' (1963) and European productions. His career experienced a resurgence in the 1980s and 1990s, particularly with his role as Dr. Lawrence Jacoby in David Lynch's 'Twin Peaks' series. Tamblyn continued acting into his 80s, appearing in films like 'The Wicker Man' (2006) and maintaining his status as a beloved character actor.
The Craft
On Screen
Known for his dynamic physical presence, athletic dance abilities, and boyish charm. Tamblyn specialized in musical roles where he could showcase his acrobatic dancing skills, but also proved his dramatic range in serious films. His style combined youthful energy with technical precision, making him particularly effective in roles requiring both acting and physical performance.
Milestones
- Signed with MGM at age 12
- Starred in 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers' (1954)
- Played Riff in 'West Side Story' (1961)
- Appeared in 'The Haunting' (1963)
- Joined cast of 'Twin Peaks' (1990-1991, 2017)
- Received Academy Award nomination for 'Peyton Place' (1957)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year – Actor (1957)
Nominated
- Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for 'Peyton Place' (1957)
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star (1995)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Russ Tamblyn represented the quintessential song-and-dance man of 1950s Hollywood, bridging the gap between the golden age of musicals and the more contemporary cinema of the 1960s. His performance in 'West Side Story' helped define the modern movie musical and influenced generations of performers. As Riff, he embodied the juvenile delinquent archetype that would become prevalent in 1960s cinema, bringing both menace and charisma to the role. His later work in cult films and television series like 'Twin Peaks' cemented his status as a pop culture icon across multiple decades.
Lasting Legacy
Tamblyn's legacy encompasses his contributions to the musical film genre, his Academy Award-nominated dramatic work, and his enduring presence in cult cinema. He represents the transition from the studio system era to more independent filmmaking, successfully adapting his career across changing Hollywood landscapes. His physical performances set a standard for dance in cinema, while his later character work demonstrated remarkable longevity in a notoriously fickle industry.
Who They Inspired
Tamblyn influenced subsequent generations of musical performers through his athletic dance style and ability to combine singing, dancing, and acting seamlessly. His work in 'West Side Story' particularly influenced how dance was integrated into narrative filmmaking. Many contemporary performers cite his ability to transition between genres as inspiration for their own career development.
Off Screen
Tamblyn has been married three times and has two daughters who became actresses. He was briefly engaged to actress Natalie Wood in the 1950s. His daughter Amber Tamblyn from his marriage to Debbie Benton became a successful actress and writer. Tamblyn has been open about his struggles with typecasting after his early success in musicals.
Education
Attended North Hollywood High School, studied dance with various instructors including Ballet Russe
Family
- Venetia Stevenson (1956-1957)
- Elizabeth Kempton (1961-1979)
- Debbie Benton (1981-present)
Did You Know?
- Was a champion gymnast and tumbler before becoming an actor
- Performed all his own stunts and dance sequences throughout his career
- Was originally considered for the role of Tony in 'West Side Story' but was cast as Riff instead
- His daughter Amber Tamblyn wrote a children's book about him titled 'The Sparkle Girl'
- Appeared in music videos for Lenny Kravitz and The Killers in the 2000s
- Was a close friend of Dennis Hopper and appeared in several of his films
- Released a spoken word album in the 1960s
- Was briefly part of a rock band called 'The Bystanders' in the 1970s
- Has a black belt in karate
- Made a brief appearance in the 2009 film 'Inglourious Basterds'
In Their Own Words
I was never a great dancer, but I was a great acrobat, and that's what they wanted in the movies
Being in 'West Side Story' was like being part of something magical. We knew we were making something special
The studio system was tough, but it taught me discipline and how to be a professional
I never wanted to be just a song-and-dance man. I always wanted to be an actor who could sing and dance
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Russ Tamblyn?
Russ Tamblyn is an American actor and dancer best known for his roles in classic Hollywood musicals like 'West Side Story' and 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers'. He began his career as a child actor in the 1940s and continues to work in film and television today, spanning over seven decades in the entertainment industry.
What films is Russ Tamblyn best known for?
Tamblyn is most famous for 'West Side Story' (1961) as Riff, 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers' (1954) as Gideon, 'Peyton Place' (1957), 'The Haunting' (1963), and his later work in David Lynch's 'Twin Peaks' series. He also appeared in 'Father's Little Dividend' (1951) early in his career.
When was Russ Tamblyn born and when did he die?
Russ Tamblyn was born on December 30, 1934, in Los Angeles, California. He is still alive and continues to work in the entertainment industry as of 2024.
What awards did Russ Tamblyn win?
Tamblyn received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for 'Peyton Place' (1957) and won the Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year – Actor in 1957. He also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1995.
What was Russ Tamblyn's acting style?
Tamblyn was known for his dynamic physical presence, exceptional dance abilities, and athletic performances. He specialized in musical roles where he could showcase his acrobatic skills, but also demonstrated strong dramatic abilities in serious films. His style combined youthful energy with technical precision.
Is Russ Tamblyn related to any other actors?
Yes, Russ Tamblyn is the father of actress Amber Tamblyn, known for her roles in 'Joan of Arcadia' and 'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants'. His ex-wife Venetia Stevenson was also an actress, and his daughter Megan Tamblyn has also worked in entertainment.
Did Russ Tamblyn do his own dancing in films?
Yes, Tamblyn performed all his own dance sequences and stunts throughout his career. His background as a champion gymnast and tumbler gave him unique physical abilities that he incorporated into his dance performances, particularly evident in 'West Side Story' and 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers'.
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Films
1 film
