Hb, 291 pages, 8 pages photographs. 2010 Can combine postage with my other listings. 2 Books usually same postage price as 1, sometimes even 3, depending on thickness.

One of Hollywood's hottest properties and the actor whose uncompromising reputation- has ensured he is constantly in the public eye. From early TV and stage work to career-defining roles in Ridley Scott's epic Gladiator and Nottingham movies, his drive, tenacity and talent have made him a favourite with directors and audiences alike. Much of Russell's early life was spent moving between his native New Zealand and Australia as his parents' film-set catering business gave him an insight in to acting and stoked his fascination of the movie industry. His first taste of fame came in a touring stage production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, which was followed with parts in Grease and Blood Brothers, before Russell was drawn to more challenging roles in Australia, where he starred in his breakthrough film Romper Stomper. But it is the highly acclaimed, demanding and character-driven roles in pictures such as LA Confidential, A Beautiful Mind and Gladiator for which Russell has established his reputation as a true professional. He has suffered concussions, a dislocated shoulder and five months as a teetotaller, such is his dedication to his craft. Russell is praised for his versatility and has been celebrated by peers at the Oscars, the Golden Globes and the BAFTA. Despite the awards and accolades, however, his love for the remote outback ranch he shares with his wife and young sons, for his band and the various sports teams and charities he he supports reveals Russell as an enigmatic and complex man. Journalist and biographer Martin Howden goes back to the times Russell Worked as a busker, bartender, fruit picker, bingo-number caller and insurance salesman before hitting the big time, and explores the truth behind his reputation for having one of the most volatile temperaments in showbusiness.