Craig Russell revolutionized Canadian drag and the many who followed
Remembering Craig Russell — Canada’s Dazzling Impersonator and Trailblazer in Entertainment
On a sunny walk through the historic Pine Grove Cemetery (est. 1862) in Port Perry, Ontario, a bright festive floral leiaround my neck, I stumbled upon a resting place as vibrant as the life it honours — that of Russell Craig Eadie, better known to the world as the legendary Craig Russell.
Born in Toronto, Russell’s journey to the spotlight began with a deep admiration for one of Hollywood’s most flamboyant icons — Mae West. As a teenager, he served as president of her fan club, and eventually worked for her personally as a secretary during a stint in Los Angeles.
But it was back in Toronto, in the early 1970s, that Craig Russell truly found his voice — and his audience. Performing in the city’s emerging gay club scene, he quickly earned a reputation for dazzling, razor-sharp impersonations of the greats: Mae West, Judy Garland, Bette Davis, Barbra Streisand, Marlene Dietrich, and Peggy Lee, among others. His talent transcended mimicry — he channelled these women with uncanny precision and electric stage presence.
His star quickly rose beyond Toronto. Craig Russell toured Las Vegas, Hollywood, Berlin, Amsterdam, Sydney, London, and more — taking his unique, glittering act around the globe and winning fans wherever he went. He became one of the first Canadian entertainers to earn international acclaim as a female impersonator, at a time when drag was still deeply underground.
In 1977, his acting career reached its peak with the cult classic film Outrageous!, loosely based on his own life. The film earned critical acclaim and was celebrated at international festivals, helping to further elevate Russell as not just a performer — but a cultural icon and LGBTQ+ pioneer.
Although openly gay, Craig surprised many when, in 1982, he married Lori Jenkins. Their bond endured until his death in 1990, and she would be laid to rest beside him in 2008.
Craig’s wife, Lori Russell Jenkins.
Russell Craig Eadie died far too young, on October 31, 1990, following a stroke. He was just 42 years old.
1948-1990
