Russell’s unshocked reaction when his son explained he was an escort

I told my parents I wanted to be honest with them about how I was making a living, and Mum sort of chuckled: “What are you doing, walking the streets?” I had to say, “Not far from it.” I knew it wasn’t easy news, but I tried to help them understand the comfort and companionship beyond the sex. Then I gave them space.

The topic was tiptoed around at family ­gatherings, but Dad began asking questions. He would ask if I had any interesting clients, and I’d joke that if he ever…