Russell Whaley was born 28 January 1981 in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, England. At 21 he left a financially stable career in Accounting to train at Leeds Metropolitan University, studying Performing Arts. Upon completion, he saved for a year and moved to Los Angeles, California in 2005 with only $2,500. He spent the next two years honing his on-camera skills, acting in fifteen short films and five spec commercials. His first notable role was that of Sgt. Michael Willis in 'Spoils of War' produced by Halcyon International Pictures. This was followed by a principle role in the drama 'Saidi's Song' produced by Blackwing Productions. He won an Award of Merit Accolade for his acting in the short film 'Jack Turner and the Reluctant Vampire.' Whaley formed a production company in 2008. Called RD Productions, they hope to make innovative films that break the mold of film standards.