Richard Kiel, the actor who famously portrayed the iconic villain “Jaws” in the James Bond films The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) and Moonraker (1979), passed away on September 10, 2014, at the age of 74. Kiel, known for his towering height of 7 feet 1.5 inches (216 cm), was a memorable figure in film, particularly for his portrayal of the steel-toothed antagonist. Despite his imposing appearance, Kiel was known for his gentle and warm personality off-screen, which contrasted with the fearsome characters he often played.
Richard Kiel was born on September 13, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan. His unique physical appearance made him a natural fit for roles requiring larger-than-life figures, and he quickly found work in television and film. Before becoming “Jaws,” Kiel appeared in various TV shows and films, including The Twilight Zone, The Wild Wild West, and The Man from U.N.C.L.E.
Richard Kiel breakthrough role as Jaws made him an enduring figure in the James Bond franchise. Jaws, a henchman with metal teeth who became a fan-favorite character due to his combination of menace and unexpected humor, contributed significantly to the films’ success. Kiel’s portrayal of Jaws became one of the most memorable elements of the Bond films, even though the character initially had a more traditional villainous arc before evolving into a more sympathetic figure by Moonraker.
Richard Kiel’s career spanned decades, and while he was best known for his role in the Bond films, he also appeared in numerous other productions, including Happy Gilmore (1996), where he played the character of “The Giant,” and the TV series The Addams Family (1992). Beyond acting, he also wrote a memoir titled Making It Big in the Movies, where he shared his experiences in Hollywood.
Richard Kiel death was widely mourned by fans of his work and the entertainment industry, as he was remembered not just for his unforgettable roles but also for his kindness and dedication to his craft.
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Photo: Richard Kiel commonly called ‘Jaws’ in James Bond movies |
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