Johnny Russell, Former Child Star and U.S. Ambassador, Dies at 91

The Hollywood actor-turned-diplomat, born John R. Countryman, passed away on December 14 after a brief illness.

Johnny Russell, born John R. Countryman, gained fame as a child actor in the late 1930s and early 1940s, starring in films like 'The Blue Bird' alongside Shirley Temple.
He transitioned from Hollywood to public service, serving as a U.S. Air Force pilot and later joining the U.S. Foreign Service in 1962.
Countryman held various diplomatic roles, including U.S. Ambassador to Oman from 1981 to 1985 under President Ronald Reagan.
He played a role in negotiations during the Iran hostage crisis and worked extensively in the Middle East and North Africa throughout his career.
Countryman passed away on December 14, 2024, in Loudoun, Virginia, due to pneumonia, leaving behind his wife, daughter, and son-in-law.