Birth name

Henry Kenneth Alfred Russell is documented in the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography and LOC (Russell, Ken, 1927–2011) (LOC; ODNB). "Ken" is the familiar short form of Kenneth.

Flamboyant literary and music films

Russell made BBC arts documentaries, then feature films known for baroque visual style: Women in Love (1969; Oscar-nominated direction; Glenda Jackson won Best Actress), The Music Lovers, The Devils (1971), Tommy (1975), and Altered States (1980). He also directed opera and continued provocative independent work late in life (LOC).

He died in November 2011. Critical opinion remains divided between admiration for visual daring and debate over excess—standard for Russell coverage.

Women in Love Blu-ray/DVD Tommy Blu-ray/DVD Altered States Blu-ray/DVD

Why the "real name" question matters

Search interest in a celebrity's "real name" usually means one of three things: a shortened everyday form (Tom for Thomas, Dave for David), a middle name used as a stage handle (Drake-style), or a true legal/professional change after immigration or branding. This sprint page states which case applies, cites library or encyclopedia authorities where possible, and avoids gossip. Career sections stay high-level and sourced so Domain Bot can add internal/external links without rewriting the biography. Living subjects are limited to public facts; memorials avoid graphic detail.