Born in Burbank, California, in 1954, Russo began her career as a model when she was only 17 years old. After signing with Ford Models, she appeared in several high-profile fashion campaigns and graced the covers of top magazines such as Vogue and Cosmopolitan.
However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that Russo began to make a name for herself as an actress. She landed her first film role in the 1989 comedy “Major League” and quickly became known for her ability to balance humor and drama with ease.
In 1992, Russo starred as Lorna Cole in the action-comedy film “Lethal Weapon 3,” opposite Mel Gibson and Danny Glover. Her portrayal of a tough-talking, no-nonsense cop earned her critical acclaim and helped establish her as a leading actress in Hollywood.
Throughout the 1990s, Russo starred in a string of successful films, including “In the Line of Fire” (1993), “Outbreak” (1995), and “The Thomas Crown Affair” (1999). She also received praise for her work in more dramatic roles, such as her performance as a troubled artist in “Two for the Money” (1996).
Despite her success on the big screen, Russo has maintained a relatively low profile in recent years. She has only appeared in a handful of films since the early 2000s, opting instead to take time off to raise her family.
In a 2014 interview with The Cut, Russo explained her decision to step away from the limelight, saying, “I was never really comfortable with the fame part of . I’m kind of a homebody, and I like to be with my family. So rather than keep fighting my way through it, I thought, I’m just going to go home and raise my kid.”
Today, Russo is happily married to screenwriter Dan Gilroy and has two grown children. Though she may not be as active in the industry as she once was, her contributions to film and television have left an indelible mark on Hollywood.
In 2014, Russo returned to the big screen in the neo-noir thriller “Nightcrawler,” directed by her husband. Her portrayal of Nina, a cutthroat TV news producer, earned her critical acclaim and garnered attention from industry insiders who praised her for her raw, fearless performance.
Despite taking a step back from her acting career, Russo remains a beloved figure in Hollywood and continues to inspire audiences with her talent, grace, and unwavering dedication to her craft. She is a true icon of the entertainment industry, and her legacy is sure to endure for many years to come.