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Tim Russ
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Tim Russ
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Timothy Darrell Russ[1] (born June 22, 1956) is an American actor, musician, screenwriter, director and amateur astronomer. He is best known for his roles as Lieutenant Commander Tuvok on Star Trek: Voyager; Robert Johnson in Crossroads (1986); Casey in East of Hope Street (1998); Frank on Samantha Who?; Principal Franklin on the Nickelodeon sitcom iCarly; D. C. Montana on The Highwaymen (1987–1988), and for his brief role in Spaceballs (1987). He appeared in The Rookie: Feds (2022) and reprised his role as Captain Tuvok on Season 3 of Star Trek: Picard.

Key Information

Early life, family and education

[edit]

Russ was born in Washington, D.C., on June 22, 1956, to a government employee mother and a U.S. Air Force officer father.[1] He spent part of his childhood in Turkey. He attended his senior year of high school at Rome Free Academy, from which he graduated in 1974.[2] He graduated from St. Edward's University with a degree in theater arts. He additionally attended graduate school at Illinois State University where he was inducted into its Hall of Fame.

Career

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Acting

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In 1985, Russ appeared in The Twilight Zone episodes "Kentucky Rye" as Officer #2 and "Voices in the Earth" as Archer. He made a brief appearance in the comedy film Spaceballs as a trooper who "combs" the desert with a giant comb.[3][4] Russ had a prominent role in the Charles Bronson film Death Wish 4.

Russ has been involved in the Star Trek franchise as a voice and film actor, writer, director, and producer. He played several minor roles before landing the role as the main character Tuvok in Star Trek: Voyager. Russ screentested, in 1987, for the role of Geordi La Forge on Star Trek: The Next Generation before being cast as Tuvok. Russ went into Voyager as a dedicated Trekkie with an extensive knowledge of Vulcan lore,[5] and has played the following roles in the Star Trek universe:

In 1995, Russ co-wrote the story for the Malibu Comics Star Trek: Deep Space Nine #29 and 30, with Mark Paniccia. Russ performed voice acting roles as Tuvok for the video games Star Trek: Voyager – Elite Force and Star Trek: Elite Force II. Russ is the director and one of the stars of the fan series Star Trek: Of Gods and Men, the first third of which was released in December 2007, with the remaining two-thirds released in 2008.[6]

Russ's character's name D. C. Montana in The Highwayman was a reference to Trek writer D. C. Fontana.[citation needed]

In 1990, he appeared in an episode of Freddy's Nightmares.[7]

Russ directed and co-starred in Star Trek: Renegades, and in both 2013 and 2014 reprised his role as the voice of Tuvok in the massively multiplayer online game Star Trek Online.[8]

Later work

[edit]
Russ at the Paradise City Comic Con, December 2016

Russ appeared as Frank, a sarcastic doorman in the sitcom Samantha Who? from 2007 to 2009, and appeared for six seasons as Principal Ted Franklin in Nickelodeon's show iCarly. He also portrayed a doctor on an episode of Hannah Montana, "I Am Hannah, Hear Me Croak".

Russ won an Emmy Award in 2014 for public service ads he did for the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office on intellectual property theft and cyberbullying.[9]

He played Captain Kells in the 2015 Bethesda Game Studios video game Fallout 4.[10]

In June 2025, following Mel Brooks’ announcement of Spaceballs 2, slated for release in 2027, Russ teased on social media that he may appear in the film, along with his more famous co-stars. [11]

Music and astronomy

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Russ has been a lifelong musician and a singer.[12] In addition, Russ has been an avid amateur astronomer most of his adult life, and is a member of the Los Angeles Astronomical Society. In 2021 he was among a small group of citizen astronomers who assisted in detection of the asteroid 617 Patroclus in preparation for NASA's Lucy probe.[13] In February 2022, he stated that he owned a 10-inch Dobsonian telescope, an 8" Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, and a Unistellar eVscope.[14]

Filmography

[edit]

Film

[edit]
Tim Russ film credits
Year Title Role Notes
1986 Crossroads Robert Johnson
Fire with Fire Jerry Washington
1987 Spaceballs Desert-Combing Trooper
Death Wish 4: The Crackdown Jesse
1988 Bird Harris
Pulse Policeman
1991 Eve of Destruction Carter
1992 Night Eyes 2 Jesse Younger
Mr. Saturday Night Assistant director
1994 Dead Connection Detective Chuck Roland
Star Trek Generations Enterprise-B Bridge Officer
1998 East of Hope Street Casey
2005 The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari Town Clerk
2006 The Oh in Ohio Douglas
Unbeatable Harold Diner Manager
2007 Live Free or Die Hard Agent Summers Die Hard 4.0 (outside North America)
2008 InAlienable News Anchor
2011 Rampart Command Staff Member #1
2014 Alongside Night General Jack Guerdon
Asteroid vs. Earth Captain Rogers
Greyscale Gavin Calhoun
2015 Star Trek: Renegades Tuvok Also director[15]
2018 5th Passenger Commander Franklin
A Fairy's Game Warlock Voice
Junkie Martin Green
Karma Frank Hudson
Dick Dickster Sammy Davas Jr.
2019 Vitals The Surgeon
2020 The Midnight Sky Mason Mosley [16]
2023 Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham Lucius Fox Voice[17][18]

Television

[edit]
Tim Russ television credits
Year Title Role Notes
1985, 1987 Hill Street Blues Paramedic / Burton / Ben Childers 3 episodes
1985 The Twilight Zone Officer #2 Episode: "Kentucky Rye"
1986 Amazing Stories Security Guard #1 Episode: "You Gotta Believe Me"
Heart of the City Collins Episode: "When Push Comes to Shove"
1987 Jake and the Fatman Pete Episode: "Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?"
Starman Tyrone Washington Episode: "The System"
Timestalkers Sergeant Filton TV film
The Twilight Zone Archer Episode: "Voices in the Earth"
Vietnam War Story Sgt. Lemon Episode: "The Mine"
Thirtysomething Salesman Episode: "Pilot"
Throb Man #2 Episode: "Whose Coup Is It Anyway?"
1987–1988 The Highwayman D.C. Montana 9 episodes
1988 21 Jump Street Ray Davies Episode: "Slippin' Into Darkness"
Roots: The Gift Marcellus the slave doorman TV film
1989 Alien Nation Ronald Ketnes Episode: "Pilot"
Beauty and the Beast Lieutenant Eric Parker Episode: "Sticks and Stones"
The People Next Door Answering Machine Guy 2 episodes
1990 Cop Rock Juror 2 episodes
Family Matters Jeff Episode: "Sitting Pretty"
Freddy's Nightmares Dr. Henry Picard Episode: "Dust to Dust"
Mancuso, FBI Malcolm Rashad Episode: "Conspiracy"
1990, 1992 The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air Eugene / Agent Collins 3 episodes
1991 Lifestories K.C. Episode: "Darryl Tevis"
Dead Silence Deputy Ryan TV film
1992 Tequila and Bonetti 'Link' Episode: "The Rose Cadillac"
1993 Hangin' with Mr. Cooper Victor Episode: "Seoul Shake"
Living Single Officer Taylor Episode: "Burglar in the House"
Murphy Brown Secret Service Officer Episode: "The Egg & I"
Star Trek: The Next Generation Devor Episode: "Starship Mine"
1993, 1995 Star Trek: Deep Space Nine T'Kar / Mirror Universe Tuvok 2 episodes
1993 Journey to the Center of the Earth Joe Briggs TV film
1994 Hangin' with Mr. Cooper Victor Episode: "Wedding Bell Blues"
Melrose Place Roger Chambers Episode: "It's a Bad World After All"
SeaQuest DSV Martin 'Mycroft' Clemens Episode: "Photon Bullet"
1995–2001 Star Trek: Voyager Lieutenant Commander Tuvok 172 episodes
1997 Spider-Man: The Animated Series Hobie Brown / Prowler (voice) Episode: "The Prowler"[18]
2002 Any Day Now Juror Episode: "The Real Thing"
2005 ER Dr. Medford Episode: "Alone in a Crowd"
Unfabulous Officer Jones Episode: "The Job"
2006 NCIS Jerry Kemper Episode: "Jeopardy"
General Hospital Dr. Trent 4 episodes
Twenty Good Years Marty 3 episodes
2007 Hannah Montana Dr. Meyer Episode: "I Am Hannah, Hear Me Croak"
Without a Trace Phil Hansen Episode: "Tail Spin"
2007–2012 iCarly Principal Ted Franklin 11 episodes
2007–2009 Samantha Who? Frank the Doorman 35 episodes
2009 Lincoln Heights Principal Episode: "Lucky"
Trust Me Gordon Benedict 2 episodes
2010 CSI: Miami Leonard Sterling Episode: "Meltdown"
The Secret Life of the American Teenager Vicar Episode: "Ben There, Done That"
2010–2011 Sym-Bionic Titan Solomon (voice) 9 episodes[18]
2011 Good Luck Charlie Dr. Meyers Episode: "L.A.R.P. in the Park"
Suits Robert Geller Episode: "Identity Crisis"
The Young and the Restless Judge Morrison Episodes 9,741 and 9,742
2012 The Soul Man Devon Episode: "How to Be a Church Lady"
Gibby Principal Ted Franklin Unaired Pilot
2013 Castle Dr. Malcolm Wickfield Episode: "Time Will Tell"
Guys with Kids Specialist Episode: "Rare Breed"
Lab Rats Special Agent Gordon Episode: "Parallel Universe"
2014 Regular Show Sergeant, Helicopter Pilot (voice) Episode: "Portable Toilet"[18]
2015 The Night Shift Bossman Episode: "Recovery"
Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No! General Gottlieb TV film
2017 The Good Doctor Patient Chuck Episode: "Oliver"
The Fosters Judge James Eskin 2 episodes
2018 Criminal Minds Agent Lawrence Episode: "To A Better Place"
9-1-1 Marriage Counsellor Episode: "Let Go"
NCIS: New Orleans Felix Episode: "Ties That Bind"
Superior Donuts Professor Mills Episode: "Grades of Wrath"
Supergirl Councilman Jul-Us Episode: "Dark Side of The Moon"
2019 Black Monday Walter Darcy Episode: "339"
PEN15 Mr. Wyzell 2 episodes
The Orville Dr. Sherman Episode: "Lasting Impressions"
NASA's Unexplained Files Himself, Astronomer Episode: "Did Aliens Nuke Mars?"
Swamp Thing Dr. Chowodury 2 episodes
American Horror Story: 1984 David Chambers Episode: "Red Dawn"
How to Get Away with Murder Judge Kofi Bonaparte Episode: "I Want to Be Free"
2020 The Resident Tyrone Griffiths Episode: "Last Shot"
2021 Them The Custodian 2 episodes
4400 Elijah Landry Episode: “You Only Meant Well”
2021-2023 iCarly Principal Ted Franklin 2 episodes
2023 Poker Face Max Episode: "The Orpheus Syndrome"
Star Trek: Picard Captain Tuvok 2 episodes[19]
2024 Ted E.R Doctor Episode: "He's Gotta Have It"
NCIS Dr. Erik Harper Episode: "Heartless"
Video games
Year Title Role Notes
2000 Star Trek: Voyager – Elite Force Lieutenant Commander Tuvok
2003 Star Trek: Elite Force II [18]
2005 Law & Order: Criminal Intent Various
2006 Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Bandero [18]
2009 Stormrise Donovan
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2 Black Panther
Dragon Age: Origins Zathrian
2012 The Secret World Harrison Blake
2013 Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII Additional voices English dub
2013–2014 Star Trek Online Tuvok [18]
2014 The Elder Scrolls Online Blademaster Qariar
2015 Fallout 4 Lancer Captain Kells [18]
2016 Mirror's Edge: Catalyst Birdman [18]
Fallout 4: Far Harbor Zealot Ware, Lancer Captain Kells
Mafia III Additional voices
2017 Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus Gunslinger Joe
2020 The Last of Us Part II Additional Voices
World of Warcraft: Shadowlands Thenios
2022 Horizon Forbidden West Jetakka [18]
2023 Starfield Dad, Guillaume Degarmo, Maurice Lyon
2024 Lego Horizon Adventures Sylens
Production
Year Title Notes
1998 East of Hope Street Credited with Nate Thomas
Writing
Year Title Notes
1998 East of Hope Street Credited with Nate Thomas
Directing
Year Title Notes
1998 Star Trek: Voyager Episode: "Living Witness"
2007 Star Trek: Of Gods and Men Fan production
Plugged Short film satirizing advertising (in final edits)
2014 Star Trek: Renegades Fan production

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Tim Russ

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Timothy Darrell Russ (born June 22, 1956) is an American , director, , , and amateur best known for portraying Lieutenant Commander , the Vulcan security chief and tactical officer, on the television series Star Trek: Voyager from 1995 to 2001. As the first African American to play a Vulcan in the Star Trek franchise, Russ's performance spanned 168 episodes and earned him widespread recognition within the genre. His multifaceted career also encompasses over 130 acting credits across film and television, including guest roles in other Star Trek series such as The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, and Enterprise, recent reprises of in Star Trek: Picard (2023) and the Star Trek: Khan audio series (2025), as well as parts in comedies like (as Principal Franklin) and Samantha Who? (as Frank). Born in , to U.S. officer Walt Russ (a retired ) and Josephine Russ, a employee and Tuskegee Institute graduate, Russ grew up with younger siblings Michael and Angela. Due to his father's military assignments, the family lived in during part of his childhood, where Russ attended Izmir American High before graduating from Rome Free Academy in New York in 1974. He pursued theater studies at Saint Edward's University, earning a B.S. in Theater Arts, and later received a full scholarship to for graduate-level acting training. Early interests in music led him to play instruments alongside his brother Michael while in , setting the stage for his later pursuits as a jazz musician proficient in , guitar, bass, and keyboards. Russ's professional achievements extend beyond acting; he has directed episodes of , , and other series, and worked as a producer and writer on projects like the short film East of Hope Street, which won 1st Place Cross Cultural at the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame Festival and Best Feature Film at the New Orleans Urban Film Festival, both in 1998. In music, he has performed for over 40 years and released original compositions. His directing work includes award-winning FBI public service announcements, for which he received a Pacific Southwest Emmy Award. Additional honors include a 2019 Telly Award for the series Dick Dickster, a 2017 Behind the Voice Actors Award nomination for , and wins at indie film festivals such as the Hollywood Black Film Festival.

Early life and education

Family background

Tim Russ was born Timothy Darrell Russ on June 22, 1956, in Washington, D.C. His father, Walt Russ, served as a U.S. Air Force officer, which led to frequent relocations during his childhood, including time spent in Turkey and on various military bases. This military lifestyle exposed Russ to diverse environments from an early age and fostered a sense of discipline and adaptability that influenced his personal development. His mother, Josephine Russ, worked as a employee, helping to maintain stability within the family despite the constant moves. Russ has a younger brother, Michael, and a younger sister, Angela, whose presence contributed to the close-knit family dynamics during their upbringing on Air Force bases. The siblings shared experiences shaped by their father's career, including living abroad, which broadened their perspectives. Russ's early exposure to the performing arts came through participation in school plays during high school, sparking his initial interest in and theater. These activities, amid the structured yet transient family environment, laid the foundation for his future pursuits in the entertainment industry.

Education

Russ spent much of his childhood moving between U.S. bases due to his father's military career, including time in Turkey, where he attended Izmir American High School. He completed his senior year and graduated in 1974 from Rome Free Academy in , during which he developed an interest in theater by performing in school plays and taking related classes. Following high school, Russ enrolled in the theater arts program at St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in theater arts (with a minor in psychology) cum laude around 1978. At St. Edward's, he actively participated in university theater productions, refining his acting techniques and stage presence through hands-on performances and coursework. He then received a full scholarship to pursue graduate studies in theater at Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois, completing one year of postgraduate work before deciding to focus on a professional career. During his college years, Russ's longstanding fascination with astronomy deepened through personal exploration and space science studies, laying the foundation for his lifelong pursuit as an amateur astronomer. Influenced by his academic mentors and the practical training from theater programs, he chose to forgo further formal education and relocated to Los Angeles in 1981 to launch his professional acting career, with encouragement from his family.

Acting career

Early roles

Tim Russ began his professional acting career in theater following his graduation from Saint Edward's University in 1981, where his training in theater arts equipped him for stage performances. In , he appeared in regional productions such as , , and , honing his craft through diverse roles that showcased his versatility. Russ made his television debut in 1985 with guest appearances on as Officer #2 in "Kentucky Rye" and Archer in "Voices in the Earth," as well as multiple episodes of playing characters like a and Ben Childers. His early film work included the role of , a musician, in the 1986 drama Crossroads, and a trooper in the 1987 comedy . These initial screen credits were minor but helped establish his presence in Hollywood. As a Black actor navigating Hollywood in the 1980s and early 1990s, Russ encountered significant challenges, including into stereotypical roles and limited opportunities due to entrenched biases among industry decision-makers. He supplemented his income and built his resume through commercials, voice-over work, and additional stage productions, gradually accumulating credits that demonstrated his range beyond typecast parts. By the mid-1990s, Russ achieved more consistent television exposure with guest spots on series such as , , , and , which provided steady work and positioned him for prominent opportunities. A minor role as the terrorist Devor in the 1993 Star Trek: The Next Generation episode "Starship Mine" further highlighted his ability to handle , setting the stage for larger breakthroughs.

Star Trek roles

Tim Russ was cast as Lieutenant , the chief of security and tactical officer aboard the USS Voyager, for the series , which aired from 1995 to 2001. This role marked him as the first African-American actor to portray a regular Vulcan character in the franchise, bringing a new dimension of representation to the Vulcan species known for their emphasis on logic and emotional suppression. To prepare for the role, Russ drew heavily from Leonard Nimoy's iconic performance as in Star Trek: The Original Series, studying the nuances of Vulcan demeanor to blend stoic logic with subtle human undertones, such as restrained empathy and moral complexity. This approach allowed to evolve beyond a purely logical , incorporating personal growth through and ethical dilemmas that highlighted Russ's ability to convey depth within the character's disciplined facade. Russ appeared as Tuvok in all 168 episodes of Star Trek: Voyager, establishing the character as a steadfast presence amid the series' exploration of isolation and survival in the Delta Quadrant. Prior to this, he had guest roles in earlier Star Trek series, including Devor, a terrorist from the Maktago species, in Star Trek: The Next Generation episode "Starship Mine" (1993), and T'Kar, a Klingon, in the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine episode "Invasive Procedures" (1993), as well as a brief appearance as a Mirror Universe Tuvok in Deep Space Nine's "Through the Looking Glass" (1995). His franchise involvement extended to films with a cameo as an unnamed Enterprise-B lieutenant in Star Trek Generations (1994) and a supporting role as Tuvok in Star Trek: First Contact (1996), where the character contributed to the Borg assimilation crisis. Following Voyager, Russ reprised the role of in voice form for the animated series , appearing in the 2023 episode "Those Old Scientists," which bridged timelines by depicting aiding a time-displaced investigation. In 2025, he provided the voice for Ensign in the audio drama series Star Trek: Khan, portraying the character as a junior officer on the USS Excelsior under Captain during events tied to Khan Noonien Singh's . Russ's portrayal of Tuvok significantly elevated his career, solidifying his status within the fanbase and opening doors to directing opportunities, including helming the Voyager episode "" (1998), which explored themes of historical distortion and cultural misrepresentation through a holographic recreation of the crew. The role also advanced representation in science fiction by presenting a as a central, authoritative figure, influencing perceptions of diversity in genre storytelling and inspiring discussions on racial dynamics in futuristic settings.

Later roles

Following the conclusion of his tenure on Star Trek: Voyager in 2001, Tim Russ returned to television with guest appearances that showcased his range in procedural dramas, including a role as Earle in the episode "Guns & Hoses" in 2002. He continued this trajectory with a guest spot as Leonard Sterling in in 2004, demonstrating his ability to portray authoritative yet nuanced supporting characters in crime-centric narratives. By the late 2000s, Russ secured a recurring role as the stern yet comedic Principal Ted Franklin on the Nickelodeon series from 2007 to 2012, appearing in multiple episodes and bringing a paternal authority to the teen comedy format. In film, Russ balanced mainstream and independent projects, appearing as Douglas, a supportive colleague, in the romantic comedy in 2006. His later cinematic work included the role of Collin Charles in the family drama series Unconventional in 2022, which premiered at Outfest . Looking ahead, he is set to appear as the villainous Mortrigard in the indie superhero film Surge of Power: Where There's Smoke, slated for wider release in 2025 after its festival premiere in 2024. Russ's recent television contributions include a guest role as Mel in the episode "Felicia" of The Rookie: Feds in 2022, where he played a key informant in a high-stakes investigation. In 2024, he appeared as himself in the retrospective documentary To the Journey: Looking Back at , offering insights into the series' production and impact during its Los Angeles premiere at Paramount Studios. Embracing the rise of streaming platforms and independent productions, Russ has diversified into digital-first projects to sustain his career post-network television fame, often collaborating on low-budget genre films and series that allow creative freedom. Notable updates from 2024 to 2025 include his voice performance as the reimagined DJ Sylens in the action-adventure Lego Horizon Adventures, released in November 2024, marking a playful shift to . He has expressed interest in additional sci-fi cameos, leveraging opportunities from his established genre credentials. Throughout these later roles, Russ frequently embodies authoritative figures—such as principals, agents, and leaders—reflecting from his Vulcan portrayal while actively pursuing versatile parts in comedy, drama, and action to broaden his portfolio. This evolution underscores his adaptability in maintaining a steady presence in entertainment amid shifting industry landscapes.

Other pursuits

Directing and writing

Tim Russ made his directorial debut with the fourth-season episode "" of in 1998, an installment that examined themes of prejudice and distorted historical narratives by depicting an alternate, villainous version of the Voyager crew in a distant future society. The episode, written by and Ronald Wilkerson, was noted for its ambitious and social commentary, marking a significant behind-the-camera milestone for Russ during his tenure as series regular . Following this, Russ expanded into independent and fan-produced projects, directing the short comedic film Roddenberry on Patrol in 2003, a satirical take on inspired by Gene Roddenberry's legacy. He then helmed the Star Trek: Of Gods and Men in 2007, a two-part production featuring veteran actors like and , which explored ethical dilemmas in a post-Dominion era. That same year, Russ directed the short film Plugged, a on and . In 2011, he took on episodes of the 12 Sided Die, a game-themed , and continued with its spin-off Bloomers. Russ's directorial work in the 2010s included the fan series : Renegades (2015–2017), where he guided a storyline involving black-ops missions and moral conflicts, drawing on established Trek lore. He also directed the independent thriller Junkie in 2018, focusing on and redemption in a gritty urban setting. More recently, in 2024, Russ directed episodes of 12 Sided Die: Sidequests, including "Of Love and Comics," maintaining his involvement in genre web content. His directing style often emphasizes character-driven narratives, informed by his extensive on-screen experience in ensemble casts. In addition to directing, Russ has contributed as a screenwriter, particularly in fan and independent cinema. He co-wrote Star Trek: Of Gods and Men (2007), blending action with philosophical undertones on duty and sacrifice. Russ penned the script for Plugged (2007), highlighting societal over-reliance on technology. His writing credits extend to the horror film Junkie (2018), where he crafted tense psychological elements. For Star Trek: Renegades, Russ contributed to the screenplay, focusing on espionage and ethical quandaries in uncharted space. Later works include writing for the sci-fi series The Circuit: Star Crew (2019) and the supernatural thriller series Into the Further (2021). These efforts underscore his preference for stories exploring human (and Vulcan) resilience amid moral challenges.

Music

Tim Russ began his musical pursuits during his school years, developing proficiency on guitar and as a vocalist while performing in various ensembles. His debut , Only a Dream in Rio (1998), featured covers of songs by artists such as , , and . Russ followed this with his self-titled Tim Russ in 2000, where he handled vocals and guitar alongside orchestral arrangements by and the Cosmic Orchestra, blending pop and rock elements. Subsequent releases included Kushangaza (2001), which incorporated original tracks like the title song reflecting personal themes, and (2003), showcasing his evolving style in pop and R&B-infused compositions. In 2015, he issued Lifeline, featuring original songs such as the introspective title track and standards, highlighting his songwriting alongside covers like "Rock Me Baby." Russ frequently performs live with his band, the Tim Russ Crew, delivering sets of , , and roots music at venues across the . He has made regular appearances at conventions, where he entertains audiences with original songs incorporating sci-fi themes—such as "WE," a 2019 release addressing individuality in a numbered —and covers like "," often adapted with cosmic undertones. Notable collaborations include his feature on the 2012 track "Screw the Ocampa" alongside fellow actor on the album Bitrektual, a playful nod to their shared franchise history. has also composed music for personal projects, integrating his songwriting with acting endeavors, such as sequencing for independent video releases. As of 2025, continues active performances, including shows with the Tim Russ Crew at venues like The Kibitz Room and participation in events, such as the 2024 convention where he joined house band performances.

Astronomy

Tim Russ's fascination with astronomy began in childhood, rooted in a casual interest in natural sciences and , which prompted him to purchase his first —an Astroscan 4-inch Newtonian reflector—for independent stargazing sessions on the outskirts of urban areas. This early hobby evolved during his college years at , where he continued observing and memorizing constellations, eventually leading to a collection of telescopes for regular backyard sessions focused on planets, the , and deep-sky objects like the and M13 . By the 1990s, his passion had solidified into a dedicated pursuit, with observations occurring two to three times per summer and occasionally in fall, emphasizing accessible techniques such as manual tracking without computerized aids. Russ maintains affiliations with astronomy organizations, including membership in and associations with the Valley College Astronomy Club and events, where he engages in community activities. His contributions to public outreach are extensive, featuring lectures and presentations at conventions and clubs; notable examples include his keynote at the 2024 Astronomical League Convention in Kansas City, a hybrid class for the Raleigh Astronomy Club in February 2024 titled "From Telescopes to Trek," and a January 2024 talk for the White Mountain Astronomers. In 2021, Russ participated in efforts for NASA's mission, assisting in the detection of the asteroid . These sessions highlight practical amateur practices, such as using for wide-field views of star clusters and fireballs, and inspire audiences by demonstrating how simple equipment can reveal cosmic wonders. In interviews, Russ has noted drawing conceptual parallels between the disciplined, logical methodology of astronomical observation and themes in science fiction, enhancing public appreciation for the hobby. Although Russ has not published formal scientific articles, he has contributed insights on celestial events through media features, such as discussions of Jupiter's Shoemaker-Levy 9 comet impact in 1994 and techniques for observing planetary alignments and solar eclipses using basic setups like piggyback cameras on motor-driven telescopes. His equipment arsenal supports these endeavors, including a 10-inch Meade Dobsonian for deep-sky viewing, an 8-inch Meade Schmidt-Cassegrain with drive, an ETX-60 for portable planetary work, a short-tube refractor with binocular eyepieces, and for casual scans—prioritizing user-friendly tools over advanced tech to promote widespread participation in . Post-2023, his activities have included the October 2024 presentation "My Astronomy Journey" for the Houston Astronomical Society, exploring his progression from manual telescopes to , and appearances at Griffith Observatory's All Space Considered series in June 2025, alongside podcast discussions on cosmic themes that occasionally reference inspirations for his music compositions.

Filmography

Film

  • Crossroads (1986) as Robert Johnson
  • Fire with Fire (1986) as Jerry Washington
  • Spaceballs (1987) as Trooper (Desert 20)
  • Death Wish 4: The Crackdown (1987) as Jesse
  • Bird (1988) as Harris
  • Pulse (1988) as Policeman #2
  • Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989) as Crewman
  • The Rookie (1990) as Black Officer
  • Star Trek Generations (1994) as Enterprise-B tactical crewmember
  • Eve's Bayou (1997) as Louis Batiste
  • The Big Hit (1998) as Metron
  • The Oh in Ohio (2006) as Motel Manager
  • Live Free or Die Hard (2007) as FBI Agent Johnson
  • Six Gun Savior (2014) as Ezekiel Roak
  • Alongside (2017) as Dr. Harlan
  • 5th Passenger (2017) as Alric
  • The Snarling (2018) as Sheriff Billy Jack Caine
  • The Midnight Sky (2020) as Commander Nolan
  • Welcome to the Jungle (2020) as Hendricks' Man
  • Nightshade (2022) as Captain Burns
  • Surge of Power: Where There's Smoke (2024) as Mortrigard

Television

Tim Russ made his television debut in the ABC Afterschool Special episode "A Matter of Time" in 1981, playing a supporting role.
  • Hill Street Blues (1981–1987): Paramedic / Burton / Ben Childers (4 episodes).
  • The Twilight Zone (1985): Officer #2 / Archer (2 episodes).
  • Amazing Stories (1986): Security Guard #1 (1 episode).
  • The Highwayman (1987–1988): D.C. Montana (main cast, 10 episodes).
  • Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994): Devor (1 episode, 1993).
  • Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993–1999): T'Kar (1 episode, 1993).
  • Donato and Daughter (1993): Detective Bill Zikko (TV movie).
  • Star Trek: Voyager (1995–2001): Lt. Commander Tuvok (main cast, 168 episodes).
  • The People Next Door (1989): Neil Quinn (main cast, 10 episodes; note: aired in syndication following early roles).
  • ER (1994–2009): Dr. Medford (1 episode, 2005).
  • Murphy Brown (1988–1998): Grant (1 episode, 1996).
  • The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (1990–1996): Byron (1 episode, 1991).
  • Living Single (1993–1998): Russell (1 episode, 1997).
  • Melrose Place (1992–1999): Roger Chambers (1 episode, 1994).
  • Samantha Who? (2007–2009): Frank (recurring, 8 episodes).
  • iCarly (2007–2012): Principal Franklin (recurring, 9 episodes).
  • NCIS (2003–present): Jerry Kemper / Dr. Erik Harper (multiple episodes, 2006–2024).
  • Criminal Minds (2005–present): Agent Lawrence (1 episode, 2017).
  • The Orville (2017–present): Dr. Sherman (1 episode, 2019).
  • The Rookie: Feds (2022): Mel (1 episode).
  • To the Journey: Looking Back at Star Trek: Voyager (2024): Self (documentary special).

Voice and other media

Tim Russ has contributed to numerous voice acting projects across animation, video games, and audio formats, often reprising authoritative or stoic characters reminiscent of his iconic role as Tuvok. His voice work extends beyond traditional screen appearances, encompassing narrations, audio dramas, and interactive media, showcasing his versatility in delivering measured, resonant performances. In animation, Russ provided the voice for Solomon, the wise and enigmatic leader of the Galal, in the Cartoon Network series Sym-Bionic Titan (2010–2011). He voiced Hobie Brown / Prowler in Spider-Man: The Animated Series (1994), in the episode "The Prowler". More recently, Russ lent his voice to Lucius Fox in the DC animated film Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham (2023), portraying the tech-savvy ally with pragmatic depth. Russ's video game credits frequently feature him in science fiction and action genres, including reprising Tuvok in Star Trek: Voyager – Elite Force (2000) and its sequel Star Trek: Elite Force II (2003), where he navigated tactical scenarios with Vulcan precision. He voiced multiple characters in Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 (2009), including Black Panther (T'Challa) and Colossus, contributing to ensemble superhero narratives. Additional roles include additional voices in Dragon Age: Origins (2009), Lancer Captain Kells in Fallout 4 (2015), Birdman in Mirror's Edge Catalyst (2016), Jetakka in Horizon Forbidden West (2022), and Sylens in Lego Horizon Adventures (2024). For audiobooks and audio productions, Russ has narrated several Star Trek titles, including Vulcan's Heart (1999) by Josepha Sherman and Susan Shwartz, Star Trek: The Next Generation – Q-Space (1998) by Greg Cox, The Genesis Wave Book 2 (2001) by John Vornholt, and The Genesis Wave Book 3 (2001) by John Vornholt, delivering immersive performances that align with the franchise's exploratory themes. In audio dramas, he portrayed in the series (2024–present), adapting Edgar Rice Burroughs's tales with a commanding presence. Russ reprised in the scripted Star Trek: Khan (2025), framing the story of through post-Wrath of Khan reflections. Beyond these, Russ has appeared in podcasts as a performer and guest, sharing insights on acting and astronomy in episodes like The Shuttlepod Show ("Russ Hour," 2023) and Go Fact Yourself (2025), where his vocal delivery enhances trivia and anecdotal segments. At conventions such as Star Trek: Las Vegas (2017–2025) and FandomCon Silicon Valley (2025), he has performed live vocal interpretations and musical numbers, blending voice acting with on-stage charisma up to November 2025. His web series contributions include voicing characters in fan-produced audio extensions, though details remain tied to convention-adjacent releases through 2025.

References

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  26. https://trekmovie.com/2025/08/09/tim-russ-explains-how-tuvok-fits-into-star-trek-khan-audio-series-hints-at-spaceballs-2-return/
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  62. https://english-voice-over.fandom.com/wiki/Tim_Russ
  63. https://marvelanimated.fandom.com/wiki/Tim_Russ
  64. https://www.mobygames.com/person/28184/tim-russ/
  65. https://www.giantbomb.com/tim-russ/3040-30502/credits/
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  67. https://www.simonandschuster.com/p/star-trek-audiobooks-read-by-cast-members
  68. https://www.johncarterrises.com/
  69. https://trekmovie.com/2025/10/17/watch-george-takei-and-tim-russ-talk-star-trek-khan-audio-series/
  70. https://shuttlepodshow.simplecast.com/episodes/ep209-russ-hour-with-tim-russ-8E3MFWeg
  71. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T56RKILzyrI
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  73. https://www.creationent.com/cal/st_chi/events.html
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