My Best of the ‘Burgh: Writer and Filmmaker John Russo
John Russo wrote the 1968 classic 'Night of the Living Dead' — now he answers our burning questions about the Steel City.
A STILL FROM “NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD”
The first seeds of the modern zombie took root in the mind of John Russo. The Clarion-born writer, director and actor approached his friend George Romero with an idea: a man defending himself against an imposing pack of ghouls.
From that concept, the 1968 classic “Night of the Living Dead” was born — written by Russo, who would go on to write the story for the ’80s spinoff “Return of the Living Dead” and many more. Frequently found at horror conventions — including the upcoming Sci-Fi Valley Con, scheduled for Nov. 8-10 in Altoona, and December’s edition of Steel City Con — Russo remains an active filmmaker and writer.
We wanted to know: What is John Russo’s Best of the ’Burgh?
What’s your Pittsburgh “hidden gem,” a place that you love that doesn’t get the attention it deserves?
“One of my favorite things about Pittsburgh and its environs is the many saloons and eateries with great environments and excellent, inexpensive food — bar food in particular. The Terrace Garden in Clairton and the WACC Club, also in Clairton, are two of my favorites.”
If you could only eat one local meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Pasta with Hot Sausage from Johnny’s Italian Dining in Wilmerding
If Pittsburgh had a theme song, what would it be?
“Backseat Memories” by Chuck Corby. “It’s a medley of hits by great Pittsburgh bands.”
What’s the annual tradition that you wait for every year?
Clairton Park Oldies Concert
Favorite Pittsburgh appearance in a movie or on television?
“Two of my own: ‘The Mob Boss and the Soul Singer’ and ‘My Uncle John is a Zombie!’”
What’s your unpopular Pittsburgh opinion? What is something you think about the city (or a famous aspect of it) that won’t win you any friends?
“I can’t think of anything. I love being in Pittsburgh — and that’s why I stayed, even though I’ve always had friends and agents in New York and Hollywood. The current crime rate and other problems that most cities are facing nowadays need to be rectified, though.”
Where’s the first place you take out-of-town guests?
Any restaurant on Mount Washington
If you could bring back one Pittsburgh place or restaurant that’s no longer there, which would you pick?
Blue Bird Restaurant in Clairton
You get one Incline ride with any Pittsburgher, living or dead. Who is it?
John McIntire. “I think [he’s] a world-class commentator.”
