James was born in Stamford Connecticut, his father James Russell was in the US Navy his mother Linda Filanowski was a nurse and he was primarily raised by his grandfather Leon Filanowski. When James was about 3 years old his mother worked at Brigantine Castle this is where James got a taste of acting. James is a accomplished magician and escape artist and was inspired to be a magician by The Amazing Johnathan. He would later follow his mother's footsteps and find work at The Headless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted House, a local haunted attraction. He later worked for Ripley's entertainment as a fire breather. Show less «