Ruslan Poptsov
- Actor
Ruslan, also known in the comedy circuit as Russell Stoner, is an Azerbaijani-born American actor and comedian. He moved from Baku, Azerbaijan to Brooklyn, New York at the age of three. Born to a Christian Orthodox Russian father and a Jewish mother, Ruslan's multicultural heritage has significantly influenced his artistic expression.
Early Life and Education: Ruslan attended the prestigious Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in New York City. LaGuardia High School is renowned for its notable alumni, including actors Al Pacino, Jennifer Anniston, Adrien Brody, Timothée Chalamet, Sarah Paulson, Liza Minnelli, Robert De Niro, Marlon Brando, and also popular hip-hop artists Nicki Minaj, Awkwafina, and Azealia Banks. After high school, Ruslan enrolled at Penn State University to study business but soon left to pursue acting full-time.
Career: Ruslan's acting career spans various roles in television and film. He is particularly known for his appearances in long-running TV shows like "Law and Order," "FBI," "Gossip Girl," "Orange is the New Black," and "White Collar." His regular performances in "Law and Order" and "White Collar" are among his notable television appearances, reflecting the shows' popularity and critical acclaim.
In film, Ruslan is best known for his role in "John Wick 2" (2017), a highly acclaimed action thriller starring Keanu Reeves. This role marked a significant milestone in his career, aligning him with a globally recognized and high-profile franchise.
Additionally, Ruslan has showcased his versatility and comic prowess at the Broadway Comedy Club in 2022 and other comedy clubs around NYC. His stand-up routines, as well as his ability to perform as a roast comic, have been well-received, highlighting his ability to engage and entertain diverse audiences.
SAG-AFTRA: After joining the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) in 2011, Ruslan's career gained further momentum. He notably appeared in the short film 'Lucky Day' (2018), directed by Hyojin Lin, where his performance was highly commended in various short film festivals.
Modeling Career: Ruslan's talents also extend into modeling, where he represented the International Model & Talent Association (IMTA), showcasing his adaptability and versatility in different aspects of the entertainment industry.
Training: Ruslan's training at the SAG-AFTRA Conservatory has significantly honed his acting and comedic skills. His dedication to the craft and professional discipline, developed through this rigorous training, are evident in his diverse and impactful performances.
Legacy and Influence: Ruslan continues to seek new and challenging opportunities in the entertainment industry. His unique blend of cultural background, training, and diverse experiences makes him a standout figure in the acting and comedy realms. His journey from LaGuardia High School to prominent roles in TV shows and films showcases his dedication to his craft and his evolving role in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Education: Ruslan attended the prestigious Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in New York City. LaGuardia High School is renowned for its notable alumni, including actors Al Pacino, Jennifer Anniston, Adrien Brody, Timothée Chalamet, Sarah Paulson, Liza Minnelli, Robert De Niro, Marlon Brando, and also popular hip-hop artists Nicki Minaj, Awkwafina, and Azealia Banks. After high school, Ruslan enrolled at Penn State University to study business but soon left to pursue acting full-time.
Career: Ruslan's acting career spans various roles in television and film. He is particularly known for his appearances in long-running TV shows like "Law and Order," "FBI," "Gossip Girl," "Orange is the New Black," and "White Collar." His regular performances in "Law and Order" and "White Collar" are among his notable television appearances, reflecting the shows' popularity and critical acclaim.
In film, Ruslan is best known for his role in "John Wick 2" (2017), a highly acclaimed action thriller starring Keanu Reeves. This role marked a significant milestone in his career, aligning him with a globally recognized and high-profile franchise.
Additionally, Ruslan has showcased his versatility and comic prowess at the Broadway Comedy Club in 2022 and other comedy clubs around NYC. His stand-up routines, as well as his ability to perform as a roast comic, have been well-received, highlighting his ability to engage and entertain diverse audiences.
SAG-AFTRA: After joining the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) in 2011, Ruslan's career gained further momentum. He notably appeared in the short film 'Lucky Day' (2018), directed by Hyojin Lin, where his performance was highly commended in various short film festivals.
Modeling Career: Ruslan's talents also extend into modeling, where he represented the International Model & Talent Association (IMTA), showcasing his adaptability and versatility in different aspects of the entertainment industry.
Training: Ruslan's training at the SAG-AFTRA Conservatory has significantly honed his acting and comedic skills. His dedication to the craft and professional discipline, developed through this rigorous training, are evident in his diverse and impactful performances.
Legacy and Influence: Ruslan continues to seek new and challenging opportunities in the entertainment industry. His unique blend of cultural background, training, and diverse experiences makes him a standout figure in the acting and comedy realms. His journey from LaGuardia High School to prominent roles in TV shows and films showcases his dedication to his craft and his evolving role in the entertainment industry.