Category: acting

Rebuilding After Tragedy: Paul Russell’s Fire Recovery Update

Paul Russell faces the aftermath of a devastating fire that destroyed his home. He navigates both rebuilding and recovery sharing his journey.

The fire which destroyed Paul Russell’s home on January 30th is over. The battle to rebuild is just beginning.

In This Update:

  • Fire Investigation Report
  • What Was Lost Beyond Home & Possessions
  • How Funds Have Been Allocated
  • Housing
  • What’s Next

THE FIRE INVESTIGATION

The investigation determined there was “no human factor” in the “undetermined ignition” and “heat source” that started the fire in the vacant, inaccessible attic space above my apartment.

WHAT WAS LOST BEYOND HOME & POSSESSIONS

This wasn’t just a fire. It wasn’t just the loss of a home or replaceable possessions. I lost my safe place—the foundation from which I could rebuild. The recovery stage for Act 2 of my life.

In my new home, Act 2’s curtain had risen. Undaunted, I stood tall—downstage, front and center. I had beaten cancer. I had regained and refined my voice. My humor and hope were renewed. Determination reignited. I was engaged with life again.

Then, fire rewrote the script.

“Fire” isn’t a welcome word or event—in life or in theater. I didn’t cause this. I didn’t manifest it. But I am responsible for how I respond. And responsibility doesn’t wait until you’re ready.

I must rise to the role life has cast me in.

HOW FUNDS HAVE BEEN ALLOCATED

I’m deeply grateful for the donations that have raised 17% of my $15K GoFundMe goal. Those funds have already gone toward:

  • Temporary accommodations not covered by my landlord.
  • First month’s rent ($1,800) for a smaller apartment, which I begin moving into today, March 1st.

Unfortunately, I’ve learned that my income over the past two decades isn’t high enough to qualify for assistance from The Entertainment Fund.

Yes, I’m frightened. That’s the honest truth. I won’t lie. “No bullshit” isn’t just a tagline in my advice writing—it’s a core value of mine. Not sharing what I’m experiencing would be irresponsible, undermining what I must now do:

  • To stand tall—undaunted, downstage, front and center—before you and the world.
  • To ask, with humility and authenticity, for help and support.

WAYS TO HELP & SUPPORT

  • CONTRIBUTE to my GoFundMe Fire Recovery Campaign.

I know life is uncertain for many, but any contribution will directly support my immediate needs: food, clothing, housing, and employment.

Paul Russell Fire Recovery GoFundMe

  • EMPLOYMENT Opportunities (In-person / Remote)

Any leads or referrals are deeply appreciated. In addition to my career in entertainment as a casting director, director, and educator I have an extensive employment history in:

Hospitality/ Hotel Management

  • Loews Hotels
  • Buck Hill Inn – A 500-room Pocono Resort
  • Rainbow Mountain – A LGBTQ+ Resort
  • Shawnee Resorts
  • Loews Cinemas (10-plex)

Exponential Marketing / Creative Content / Staff Management

  • Mirrorball
  • Publicis Media
  • GMR Marketing

(Resume available. Please contact me via PaulRussellCasting[at]gmail[dot]com)

• SHARE this GoFundMe campaign and this post. Sharing is caring.

Share Support By Clicking Here

The more visibility this recovery effort gets, the brighter the path forward.

Thank you for hearing me. Thank you for your time. Thank you for your help and support.

With gratitude,Paul

Paul Russell Fire Recovery GoFundMe

Devastating Fire Destroys Casting Director & Author Paul Russell’s Home

On January 30th, a fire caused by an electrical surge destroyed the home of Paul Russell, a casting director and author. Russell escaped with only his laptop and clothes. Friends initiated a Go Fund Me campaign to support his recovery needs. For assistance, visit the provided link.

During the early morning hours of January 30th a fire destroyed the New Jersey home of casting director, actor-advocate-and author Paul Russell.

Russell was asleep when the fire — caused by a powerful electrical surge — began above him in the attic. He escaped his second floor apartment with only his laptop. and the clothes he hastily put on while running to safety.

TEAM RUSSELL RECOVERY:

Friends of Paul Russell have set-up a Go Fund Me campaign to raise immediate funds food, housing, and ensure a stable recovery. To show your support for Paul in this challenging time please visit & share:

https://gofund.me/b475a545