With roles in acclaimed productions, Russell Hornsby (aka, the man, the myth, the legend) has embodied a wide range of characters with depth and authenticity. His dedication to his craft and ability to command the screen have solidified him as an established figure in the entertainment industry.
Hornsby, who recently visited NYFA New York for a Q&A with filmmaking and acting students, has acted in television shows, films, and on stage for over two decades, building an impressive body of work. Hornsby also visited NYFA in 2017 to host a workshop for acting students. Header Image: Russell Hornsby via Deadline.com.
Russell Hornsby in Television
From his role as Detective Hank Griffin in the supernatural drama series Grimm to his portrayal of Lincoln Rhyme in Lincoln Rhyme: Hunt for the Bone Collector, Hornsby has showcased his range across various genres. With his ability to inhabit complex characters, Hornsby continues to be a memorable presence on TV, with appearances in hit television shows such as Law and Order: SVU, Shameless, The Good Wife, Grey’s Anatomy, Girlfriends, and Suits.
A few of his most prominent works include:
BMF (Black Mafia Family) (2021 – )
Hornsby plays Charles Flenory in the show BMF (Black Mafia Family). Based on a true story, the 50-Cent-produced television series takes place in the neighborhoods of southwest Detroit during the late 1980s, following two brothers who established one of the nation’s most influential crime syndicates. The show co-stars Tyshon Freeman, Da’Vinchi, Michole Briana Whit, and Demetrius ‘Lil Meech’ Flenory.
In an interview for TV Insider, Hornsby thanked Tasha Smith for approaching the story with a “deep level of authenticity that you don’t often see when Black stories get told.”
“Story and script is one thing,” said Hornsby. “But when you get some fantastic actors old and young, you can’t help but come out with an authentic grounded performance and work. People want realness. That is what we gave them.”
Mike (2022)
The television mini-series Mike follows the tumultuous and contentious journey of heavyweight champion Mike Tyson. Hornsby plays Don King, a legendary American boxing promoter renowned for his larger-than-life persona and extravagant style.
King orchestrated some of the most iconic fights in boxing history, working with legendary champions like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson. The show co-stars Trevante Rhodes as Mike Tyson, Olunike Adeliyi, Kale Browne, and Grace Zabriskie. Image via @russellhornsby on X.
Proven Innocent (2019)
In Proven Innocent, Hornsby had a recurring role as Ezekiel “Easy” Boudreau. The legal drama series follows a wrongful conviction firm as they work to exonerate wrongly convicted individuals. Through gripping courtroom battles and investigations, the series delves into issues of justice, redemption, and the flaws within the legal system. The show co-stars Rachelle Lefevre, Vincent Kartheiser, and Nikki M. James.
Gideon’s Crossing (2000-2001)
In the Emmy-award-winning Gideon’s Crossing, Hornsby portrayed Dr. Aaron Boies, a physician at the unconventional Gideon Memorial Hospital. The show starred the late Andre Braugher as the brilliant but unorthodox Chief of Experimental Medicine, Dr. Benjamin Gideon. In addition to Braugher, Gideon’s Crossing also featured Rhona Mitra, Rubén Blades, and Hamish Linklater.
Lincoln Rhyme: Hunt for the Bone Collector (2020)
Lincoln Rhyme: Hunt for the Bone Collector (2020) featured Hornsby as NYPD detective Lincoln Rhyme, a role based on the character from Jeffrey Deaver’s novel “The Bone Collector.” The series follows Rhyme’s pursuit of a notorious serial killer. The series, which has some creative differences from the novel, also stars Arielle Kebbel. The novel also inspired the 1999 film adaptation The Bone Collector, featuring Denzel Washington as Detective Lincoln Rhyme.
The Affair (2014-2019)
Hornsby had a recurring role as Carl Gatewood in The Affair, a detective investigating a murder case in the third season. Co-starring Dominic West, Ruth Wilson, Maura Tierney, and Brendan Fraser, The Affair explores the emotional complexities of infidelity and its ripple effects on two families.
Set against the backdrop of the Hamptons, the show delves into perspectives from different characters involved in the affair through a nonlinear narrative structure. Image via IMDB.
Grimm (2011-2017)
In the popular TV series Grimm, Hornsby appeared as Hank Griffin, a detective and friend of the main character Nick Burkhardt (David Giuntoli) in this supernatural drama series. He was a main cast member throughout the show’s six-season run. The series was set in a world where fairy tales are real, following homicide detective Nick Burkhardt, who discovers he is a “Grimm,” a guardian tasked with keeping the balance between humanity and mythological creatures. With its blend of police procedural and fantasy elements, Grimm captivated audiences with its rich mythology and intriguing characters across its six seasons, and also starred David Giuntoli, Silas Weir Mitchell, Sasha Roiz, Reggie Lee, and Elizabeth Tulloch.
Haunted (2002)
Hornsby appeared in the supernatural horror drama series Haunted as Marcus Bradshaw, a detective investigating paranormal occurrences. The show, which premiered on Netflix, was a blend of real-life interviews and dramatic reenactments, focusing on individuals recounting their encounters with paranormal entities and terrifying experiences. Each episode delves into a different haunting, offering a spine-tingling exploration of the unknown and the unexplained. The show also starred Matthew Fox, Michael Irby, Lynn Collins, and John Mann.
Russell Hornsby in Film
With roles in movies like Fences and The Hate U Give, Russell Hornsby continues to show his versatility and depth as an actor, often portraying characters with immense emotional depth. His commanding presence on screen and ability to bring depth to his roles have solidified him as a respected figure in the film industry.
The Hate U Give (2018)
In this film adaptation of Angie Thomas’s novel, Hornsby played Maverick Carter, the father of the protagonist Starr Carter (Amandla Stenberg). Directed by George Tillman Jr., The Hate U Give follows Starr, who witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood friend by a police officer. As Starr navigates the complexities of race, identity, and activism, the film delivers a poignant and timely exploration of systemic racism and the importance of speaking out against injustice. The film also starred Regina King, Marvel star Anthony Mackie, NYFA alum Issa Rae, and Common.
Fences (2016)
In the Oscar-award-winning Fences, Hornsby portrayed Lyons Maxson, the older son of Troy Maxson (Denzel Washington). Set in 1950s Pittsburgh, the movie follows Troy Maxson, a former baseball player turned sanitation worker, as he navigates issues of race, family, and personal responsibility. Hornsby had also played Lyons in the Broadway production of the show.
“When you embody any character of August Wilson’s, the experience stays with you for a lifetime,” Russell said in an interview with Broadway.com. “It never leaves. The characters are so three-dimensional; it stays in your bloodstream.”
With powerful performances and rich storytelling, the adaptation of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play garnered critical acclaim. The film also starred Viola Davis, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Jovan Adepo, and Mykelti Williamson. Image via IMDB.
The Skeleton Key (2005)
Hornsby appeared as Detective Green in this supernatural thriller film starring Kate Hudson and Gena Rowlands. A 2005 supernatural thriller film directed by Iain Softley, the film stars Kate Hudson, Gena Rowlands, and Peter Sarsgaard, and follows a hospice nurse who takes a job at a remote plantation home in Louisiana. As she uncovers dark secrets about the house’s history and its occupants, she becomes ensnared in a sinister web of voodoo and malevolent spirits.
After the Sunset (2004)
In After the Sunset, Hornsby portrayed Deakins, an FBI agent, in this action-comedy film featuring Pierce Brosnan and Salma Hayek. The movie follows a retired master thief who plans one last heist before retiring for good. Set against the backdrop of a tropical paradise, the film combines witty humor with stylish action sequences, making it an entertaining caper with unexpected twists.
Get Rich or Die Tryin’ (2005)
Hornsby had a supporting role as Odell in this semi-autobiographical film based on the life of rapper 50 Cent. Directed by Jim Sheridan, and starring Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson in the lead role, the 2005 crime drama film was loosely based on 50 Cent’s own life story. With its raw portrayal of inner-city life, the movie offers a gritty exploration of the challenges faced by those striving for success in the face of adversity. The movie also features Joy Bryant, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Omar Benson Miller, and Terrence Howard.
Creed II (2018)
In this sequel to the 2015 film Creed, Hornsby appeared as Buddy Marcelle, the trainer and mentor of Adonis Creed (played by Michael B. Jordan). The eighth installment in the Rocky film series, the movie continues the story of Adonis Creed, son of Apollo Creed, as he faces off against Viktor Drago, the son of Ivan Drago, who killed Adonis’ father in the ring.
Creed II delivers powerful boxing sequences alongside emotional depth, exploring themes of family legacy, redemption, and determination. Hornsby’s co-stars in Creed II included Sylvester Stallone, Tessa Thompson, Phylicia Rashad, Dolph Lundgren, and This is Us star Milo Ventimiglia.
In Treatment (2008-2010)
Hornsby appeared in several episodes In Treatment as Luke, a patient undergoing therapy with therapist Paul Weston (Gabriel Byrne). A drama series that aired from 2008 to 2010, the show revolved around Weston and his sessions with patients. With its intimate, dialogue-driven format and stellar performances, In Treatment earned critical acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of mental health issues and interpersonal relationships. The film also starred Gabriel Byrne, Uzo Aduba, Dianne West, and Blair Underwood.
Master Your Craft at NYFA
Through a range of roles and genres, Hornsby became a well-rounded actor in film, media, and entertainment. At NYFA’s Acting for Film School, aspiring actors undergo rigorous training in screen acting and contemporary on-camera techniques to enhance their natural talent.
Ready to enhance your skills in auditioning and performance? Learn more about our programs today!