trio films, a Los Angeles-based commercial production company, is proud to announce the addition of comedy director Russell Bates to its roster.
Bates, a California native, has helmed commercials for major brands such as Snickers, Tide, Axe, Budweiser, T-Mobile, ESPN, Target and Chevrolet. He has worked with many celebrities including Betty White, Will Ferrell, Ben Stiller, Denis Leary, Joan Collins and Andy Dick amongst others.
Bates’ experience in comedy runs deep, having achieved success as a writer and director of comedic shorts for the MTV Movie Awards, Comedy Central, the VH1 Fashion Awards and the People’s Choice Awards. His most notable pop culture contribution is the name he created – Derek Zoolander - for the character he co-created with Ben Stiller.
“He’s a perfect addition to our roster and we are excited about being part of his
creative journey”, says Taylor Ferguson, Partner / EP at trio films.
Bates is currently in production on a Head & Shoulders job for Saatchi New York.