Date of Birth: January 14, 1914
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Date of Death: January 29, 2002
Biography
Harold John Avery Russell was an American World War II veteran and actor, best known for his role in the 1946 film “The Best Years of Our Lives.” Born in North Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada, Russell moved to Massachusetts with his family. He joined the United States Army during World War II and served as a paratrooper in the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment. During a training exercise in 1944, an accidental detonation of TNT resulted in the loss of both his hands. Russell was fitted with prosthetic hooks and, after the war, became involved in advocacy for disabled veterans. His acting career began when director William Wyler cast him in “The Best Years of Our Lives,” a film about returning war veterans. Russell’s portrayal of Homer Parrish, a sailor who lost both hands, earned him two Academy Awards: one for Best Supporting Actor and a special Oscar for “bringing hope and courage to his fellow veterans.” Despite his success, he chose not to pursue a full-time acting career, instead dedicating his life to veterans’ causes and serving as Chairman of the President’s Committee on Employment of the Handicapped.
5 Interesting Facts about Harold Russell
1. Harold Russell is the only actor to receive two Oscars for the same role.
2. He lost both of his hands in a training accident during World War II.
3. After his acting career, he became an advocate for disabled veterans.
4. He served as Chairman of the President’s Committee on Employment of the Handicapped.
5. Russell wrote an autobiography titled “Victory in My Hands.”
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Harold Russell
1. “I am not a professional actor. I am a professional disabled veteran.”
2. “I believe in living each day as if it were your last.”
3. “The only way to overcome adversity is to embrace it.”
4. “Winning the Oscar was wonderful, but helping my fellow veterans was my real reward.”
5. “I never set out to be an actor, but I hope my story inspires others.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At his peak, Harold Russell’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million.
Children
Harold Russell had two children, a son named Gerald and a daughter named Adele.
Relevant Links
1. [Harold Russell – IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0751083/
2. [Harold Russell – Academy Awards](https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/1947
5. [Harold Russell Biography – Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Harold-Russell
