The statuesque 7 ft. 2 in. Tall actor portrayed the mercenary Jaws in the Bond Films The Spy Who Loved Me and Moonraker opposite Sir Roger Moore. Moore, 86, who portrayed the iconic character of the British spy James Bond took to Twitter to express his grief at the passing away of his former co-star and friend.
“I am totally distraught to learn of my dear friend Richard Kiel’s passing. We were on a radio program together just a week ago. Distraught. Can’t take it in,” tweeted the British actor.
Former NFL player and co-star of Kiel, Carl Weathers also tweeted his sorrow at the passing away of the actor, “RIP Richard Kiel. Had the pleasure to work with you twice. #BePeace.”
Kiel who died three days short of his 75th birthday was admitted in a hospital a week ago; for a broken leg, and was receiving treatment. According to the celebrity news website, TMZ, cause of death is yet to be revealed.
Other notable films and television shows that Kiel was a part of included Happy Gilmore in which he starred as the imposing boss Mr Larson and Twilight Zone episode ‘To Serve Man’, in which he played Kanamit alien.
According to The Independent, Kiel remained active on the autograph circuit for avid Bond fans, having taken a step back from acting after an accident left him with walking difficulties a few years ago.
Kiel mostly noted for his height suffered from a rare hormonal condition known as acromegaly, which is often associated with gigantism. He is survived by his wife, four children and nine grandchildren.
The man who sported one of the scariest looks in film history will surely be missed.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 12th, 2014.
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