Russell Wendell Simmons, born in 1957, is an influential American entrepreneur and record executive primarily known for co-founding the groundbreaking hip-hop label Def Jam Recordings with Rick Rubin in 1984. Under his guidance, Def Jam launched the careers of iconic artists like Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, and LL Cool J, before Simmons sold his share for $120 million to Universal Music Group in 1998. His empire also diversified into fashion with brands like Phat Farm, produced television hits such as HBO's Def Comedy Jam, and included the prepaid debit card provider RushCard, building an estimated net worth of $340 million by 2011. Beyond business, Simmons actively promoted veganism and a yoga lifestyle, authoring several books. However, a significant turning point occurred in 2017 when multiple women publicly accused him of sexual assault—allegations he denied—leading to his resignation from all business roles and charities.