Richard Kiel was an American actor, voice actor, and a man of many talents. Born on September 13, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, Kiel was a towering figure at 7'2\" tall. Despite his height, Kiel was known for his gentle personality and kind demeanor, which endeared him to many fans. In this article, we will explore the many accomplishments and achievements of this remarkable man.
Kiel's impressive stature was apparent from an early age, and he soon learned to embrace his uniqueness. He was an excellent athlete, playing basketball and football in high school, and was even offered a scholarship to play basketball in college. However, Kiel had his sights set on Hollywood, and after completing his studies at the University of Georgia, he moved to California to pursue his dream of becoming an actor.
It wasn't long before Kiel was discovered by director Irvin Kershner, who cast him in the film \"The Nutty Professor\" alongside Jerry Lewis. Kiel's unique appearance and towering height made him a natural fit for the role, and he quickly garnered attention for his scene-stealing performance. This led to a series of roles in other films, including \"House of the Damned,\" \"The Phantom Planet,\" and \"Eegah.\"
Kiel's breakout role came in 1977 when he was cast as the villainous Jaws in the James Bond film \"The Spy Who Loved Me.\" Kiel's imposing stature and metal teeth made him an instant hit with audiences, and his character quickly became one of the most iconic villains in the Bond franchise. Kiel reprised his role as Jaws in the 1979 Bond film \"Moonraker,\" cementing his status as a fan favorite.
Kiel's success as Jaws led to a long and illustrious career in Hollywood, with roles in films such as \"Cannonball Run II,\" \"Happy Gilmore,\" and \"Tangled.\" He also worked extensively in television, lending his distinctive voice to animated shows such as \"The Simpsons\" and \"Inspector Gadget.\"
Richard Kiel passed away on September 10, 2014, at the age of 74. Despite his imposing appearance and intimidating characters, Kiel was beloved by fans and colleagues alike for his gentle and kind nature. His legacy lives on through his iconic performances in films such as the James Bond franchise, as well as his work as a humanitarian. Kiel was a devoted advocate for children with disabilities and spent much of his time working with organizations like the Special Olympics and the Easter Seals.
In conclusion, Richard Kiel was a talented and multifaceted individual who made an indelible mark on popular culture. His towering stature and distinctive appearance will never be forgotten, but it was his kind heart and dedication to helping others that truly set him apart. He will always be remembered as a true legend in the entertainment industry and an inspiration to those who knew him.