Russell “Red” Steagall (born December 22, 1938) is an American actor, musician, poet, and stage performer renowned for his contributions to American Western and country music. Born in Gainesville, Texas, Steagall developed a love for rodeos, but at 15, polio redirected his focus to music. He learned to play the guitar and mandolin as part of his therapy. After earning a degree in animal science and agronomy from West Texas State University, he pursued a career in agricultural chemistry before moving into the music industry.
Steagall became a prominent figure in country music, producing television and radio shows, including Cowboy Corner and Red Steagall is Somewhere West of Wall Street. He also appeared in films such as Benji the Hunted and produced the movie Big Bad John. In 1974, he discovered Reba McEntire and helped launch her career.
As a poet and writer, Steagall has published books like Ride for the Brand and Born to This Land, receiving accolades for his poetry and music, including multiple Wrangler Awards. Known for celebrating the cowboy lifestyle, he has hosted the annual Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering in Fort Worth since 1991.
Steagall has received numerous honors, including being named the Official Cowboy Poet of Texas and being inducted into the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum’s Hall of Great Westerners. In 2024, the National Ranching Heritage Center announced the establishment of the Red Steagall Institute of Western Art to honor his legacy.
