Kode swoops for Diane Russo Cheng.

26 February 2026

Fashion photographer-turned-director Diane Russo Cheng has completed her move to Kode, who say it's "a real honour" to have the Italian-American talent onboard.

Fashion photographer-turned-director Diane Russo Cheng has completed her move to Kode. The Italian-American talent arrives soon after the release of her Gillette Venus commercial starring Alysa Liu, double gold medallist at the 2026 Winter Olympics. We like to think she put Liu in the right frame of mind before Milan-Cortina.

Head of New Business Dan Mallerman thinks Kode has signed its own world-beater: "I have always sought voices that speak truths that need to be heard. Diane's work does that in ways which enlighten the viewer. Her commercial work is distinctive in a genre that feels, at times, oversaturated. The film she made for Adidas, 'The Ridiculous Run', traversed branded work with a significant message, which is exactly the sweet spot we're so often seeking.

"Through our conversations this past month, I have come to realise that Diane is the exact sort of person we want to be associated with—someone who’s not prepared to passively let injustices go unchallenged. It's a real honour to have her join our roster."

Diane Russo Cheng is equally effusive: "Kode and I share the same values—a focus on making meaningful work. That was really apparent to me when Dan and I first spoke. There is a really ambitious spirit from the team and a realistic point of view that I appreciate so much.

"When I envision the future of my career, it's definitely a challenging road for a filmmaker, who is also a woman, to venture towards. And I love that Kode couldn't imagine my future any other way. It meant a lot to me. I am looking forward to making some really badass work together."

Click here to see more of Diane Russo Cheng's work. After that, call Dan Mallerman (dan@kodemedia.com) or Emily Bowell (emily.bowell@kodemedia.com) on 020 8133 5633.