Taylor Russell, born on July 18, 1994, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, has rapidly emerged as one of the most compelling talents in contemporary cinema and television. With a career spanning over a decade, Russell has showcased her versatility across various genres, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Early Career and Television Breakthrough
Russell began her acting career with guest roles in television series such as Emily Owens, M.D. (2012) and Strange Empire (2015). Her portrayal of Evelyn in the science fiction series Falling Skies (2015) marked a significant step in her early career. However, it was her role as Judy Robinson in Netflix’s Lost in Space (2018–2021) that brought her widespread recognition. As the intelligent and brave eldest daughter of the Robinson family, Russell’s performance was lauded for bringing depth and nuance to the character. The series ran for three seasons, concluding in 2021.
Film Debut and Rising Stardom
Russell’s transition to film began with roles in If I Had Wings (2013) and Before I Fall (2017). In 2019, she starred as Zoey Davis in the psychological horror film Escape Room, which was a commercial success, grossing over $155 million worldwide. She reprised her role in the sequel, Escape Room: Tournament of Champions (2021).
The same year, Russell delivered a breakthrough performance in the drama Waves (2019), portraying Emily Williams, a teenager navigating grief and forgiveness. Her portrayal earned her the Gotham Independent Film Award for Breakthrough Actor and the Virtuoso Award at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival.
Continued Success and Acclaimed Performances
In 2020, Russell starred as Maya Arnez in Words on Bathroom Walls, a romantic drama that received positive reviews for its sensitive depiction of mental illness. She also appeared in Dr. Bird’s Advice for Sad Poets (2021), further showcasing her range as an actress.
Russell’s most acclaimed role to date came with Bones and All (2022), directed by Luca Guadagnino. Starring alongside Timothée Chalamet, she played Maren Yearly, a young woman grappling with cannibalistic urges. The film premiered at the Venice International Film Festival, where Russell received the Marcello Mastroianni Award for Best Young Actress.
Recent Projects and Future Endeavors
In 2023, Russell starred as Bella in Mother, Couch, a comedy-drama featuring Ewan McGregor and Ellen Burstyn. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and was released in the U.S. in July 2024.
Looking ahead, Russell is set to appear in the thriller Hope, directed by Na Hong-jin, alongside HoYeon Jung, Michael Fassbender, and Alicia Vikander. She is also attached to a reimagining of The Thomas Crown Affair, co-starring Michael B. Jordan.
Stage and Directorial Work
Beyond screen acting, Russell made her stage debut in The Effect (2023–2024), a play by Lucy Prebble. Her performance as Connie received critical acclaim during its runs in London and New York. Additionally, Russell co-directed the short documentary The Heart Still Hums (2020), which won several awards and was the basis for the feature film Earth Mama (2023).
Conclusion
Taylor Russell’s career trajectory reflects a dedication to complex and challenging roles across various mediums. Her performances continue to captivate audiences and critics alike, marking her as a significant figure in contemporary acting.
Selected Filmography:
If I Had Wings (2013) – Amy Conrad
Before I Fall (2017) – Ashley
Escape Room (2019) – Zoey Davis
Waves (2019) – Emily Williams
Words on Bathroom Walls (2020) – Maya Arnez
Escape Room: Tournament of Champions (2021) – Zoey Davis
Bones and All (2022) – Maren Yearly
Mother, Couch (2023) – Bella
Hope (2025) – TBA
The Thomas Crown Affair (TBA) – TBA
Television:
Emily Owens, M.D. (2012) – Mean Girl #1
Strange Empire (2015) – Cassie
Falling Skies (2015) – Evelyn
Dead of Summer (2016) – Laura
Lost in Space (2018–2021) – Judy Robinson
Frequently Asked Questions: Taylor Russell’s Cinematic Journey
Q: What is Taylor Russell best known for?
A: Taylor Russell is best known for her role as Judy Robinson in Netflix’s Lost in Space (2018–2021) and her critically acclaimed performance in the film Waves (2019).
Q: What was Taylor Russell’s breakout movie?
A: Waves (2019) is widely considered her breakout film, where she portrayed Emily Williams. Her performance earned her several awards, including the Gotham Independent Film Award for Breakthrough Actor.
Q: Which horror film did Taylor Russell star in?
A: Taylor starred as Zoey Davis in Escape Room (2019) and reprised the role in Escape Room: Tournament of Champions (2021).
Q: Has Taylor Russell won any awards?
A: Yes, she won the Marcello Mastroianni Award for Best Young Actress at the Venice Film Festival in 2022 for her role in Bones and All.
Q: What recent films has Taylor Russell appeared in?
A: Her recent works include Bones and All (2022), Mother, Couch (2023), and the upcoming thriller Hope (2025).
Q: Has Taylor Russell appeared in any stage productions?
A: Yes, she starred in The Effect (2023–2024), a stage play by Lucy Prebble, which ran in London and New York.
Q: Did Taylor Russell direct any projects?
A: She co-directed the award-winning short documentary The Heart Still Hums (2020), which inspired the feature film Earth Mama (2023).
Q: What upcoming projects is Taylor Russell involved in?
A: Taylor is set to appear in Hope and a reimagining of The Thomas Crown Affair alongside Michael B. Jordan.
Q: Where can I watch Taylor Russell’s TV shows?
A: You can stream Lost in Space on Netflix. Other series like Falling Skies and Dead of Summer are available on various digital platforms.
Q: How can I learn more about Taylor Russell’s full filmography?
A: Visit her for a complete list of her roles in film and television.
