Biography
Cheeky chappy Russell Grant is probably best remembered for his appearances on TV in the 1980's reading stars on breakfast television.
The 60 year old astrologer and all-round entertainer is still going strong and continues to offer his mystical musings in magazines, as well as returning to the stage for a production of A Midsummer Night's Dream and teaching performing arts in Wales.
Career
Russell began his career as an actor, training at drama school in Middlesex.
In 1978 he held an astrological reading for the Queen Mother and was subsequently dubbed "Astrologer Royal".
He appeared on regular slots on LWT's 6 O'Clock Show, followed by stints on the Ö÷²¥´óÐã's Breakfast Time, presenting the Your Stars section, and on TV-AM as resident astrologer. He appeared regularly on ITV's This Morning in the 1990's and hosted his own programme callled Russell Grant's All Star Show.
Alongside his astrological career, Russell has an impressive catalogue of TV and theatre work.
He's appeared on various travel programmes, including Russell Grant's Postcards for Channel 5, which was a collection of five minute travelogues. In 2004, he also presented The Russell Grant Show for Sky One.
Lately Russell has returned to the stage in Wales, whilst he is currently directing a 1960's-themed musical at the college where he teaches.
Background
Russell was born into a showbiz background in Hillingdon, Middlesex.
Both his parents worked at Pinewood Studios - his mother as a secretary and his father as a set designer. His uncle, a film producer, won an Oscar for The Deerhunter.
After his parents' marriage broke up, Russell spent most of his childhood in the care of his grandparents. Later in his life, after losing both his grandmothers to Alzheimer's, Russell suffered clinical depression. He now raises money for Alzheimer's charities.
Whilst working in Blackpool Russell met his partner Doug Beaumont. They have now been together for over 30 years and Doug is also his manager. They live together in Wales.
Trivia
Russell says he decided to take part in Strictly because the public set up an online group called 'Get Russell on Strictly'.
He says he's lost about 10 stone in the past two and a half years and used to disco dance for half an hour every day.
One of his big dreams is to do Irish dancing and tap dancing but he's never done Ballroom or Latin.
His favourite Strictly dancers are Flavia and Ola.
As an Aquarius he describes himself as impatient. He adds: "I'm spontaneous. I need someone who is patient, willing to take their time."
Dancing partner
Russell Grant is dancing with Flavia Cacace.
Fan of Team Flavant?
Join in the discussion on Russell and Flavia's Fanblog page - ""!
