Overview
- Russell was found unresponsive at his San Diego-area home on Wednesday, July 22, and fire-department responders were unable to revive him.
- His wife, Ania, and the family confirmed the death to journalists and say they are traveling to California while the official cause of death remains undisclosed.
- Russell built a four-decade career across horror, action and comedy, directing A Nightmare on Elm Street 3, The Blob, The Mask, Eraser and The Scorpion King.
- The Mask, made with Industrial Light & Magic, was a major box-office hit in 1994 and earned an Academy Award nomination for visual effects while boosting Jim Carrey and Cameron Diaz's careers.
- Colleagues and fans have paid public tribute, and Russell is survived by his wife Ania and three children, Logan, Riley and Carlyn; reporting continues as authorities and family seek clarification.