Mark Russell

Mark Russell, born Joseph Marcus Ruslander on August 23, 1932, was an American political satirist and comedian. He gained recognition for his bimonthly comedy specials on PBS television from 1975 to 2004. Known for his musical parodies and political stand-up humor, Russell accompanied himself on his iconic American flag-themed piano. Born in Buffalo, New York, to Marie Elizabeth and Marcus Joseph Ruslander, he attended Canisius High School before briefly moving to Florida and then settling in Washington, D.C. Russell enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after a short stint at George Washington University. Starting in the early 1960s, he entertained regularly at the Shoreham Hotel in Washington, D.C. and had a notable appearance on the CBS variety show in 1977.