Jan Russ

Jan Russ (born January 19, 1949) is an Australian casting director, acting coach, and film and television producer. She is best known for her extensive work in Australian television drama, particularly her long tenure as the casting director for the iconic soap opera Neighbours.

Russ began her career in the entertainment industry as an actress before transitioning into casting. As a casting director, she is credited with discovering and launching the careers of numerous Australian actors who have gone on to achieve international success, including actors such as Guy Pearce, Kylie Minogue, Jason Donovan, and Margot Robbie. Her role at Neighbours saw her responsible for identifying and developing talent for the show, a process that involved auditions, workshops, and ongoing support for the actors.

Beyond Neighbours, Russ has also worked on a variety of other Australian television productions, including dramas, comedies, and miniseries. She has also run acting workshops and provided coaching to aspiring performers, further contributing to the development of the Australian acting community. Her experience extends to producing, showcasing a broad understanding of the entertainment industry from talent discovery to screen production. Her significant contributions have made her a respected figure in Australian film and television.