Richard Kiel
Early Life
Richard George Kiel was born on September 13, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan. He was the son of a house painter and a housewife. Kiel's unusual height, which he reached early in his life, was due to a condition known as acromegaly, a hormonal disorder that results in an overabundance of growth hormones. This condition would later play a significant role in his acting career.
Career
Kiel began his career in the entertainment industry in the late 1950s, working as a night club bouncer and a cemetery plot salesman before moving on to acting. His first acting role was in the 1960 television series Laramie, where he played a towering, mute blacksmith. This was followed by appearances in various television shows such as The Twilight Zone and The Man from U.N.C.L.E..
In 1974, Kiel was cast in the role that would define his career - the steel-toothed henchman Jaws in the James Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me. His character was initially intended to die in the film, but the audience response was so positive that the filmmakers decided to bring him back for the next film, Moonraker. Kiel's portrayal of Jaws, with his menacing height and distinctive metal teeth, made him one of the most memorable villains in the James Bond franchise.
Kiel's acting career spanned over 50 years, during which he appeared in more than 80 films and television shows. Despite his imposing on-screen presence, Kiel was known off-screen for his kind and gentle nature. He was also a talented writer and producer, having co-written and produced the family film The Giant of Thunder Mountain.
Personal Life
Kiel was married twice. His first marriage, to Faye Daniels, ended in divorce. He later married Diane Rogers, with whom he had four children. Kiel was a devout Christian and his faith played a significant role in his life. He was also an avid golfer and even co-authored a book on the subject, Richard Kiel's Celebrity Golf Shots.
Death and Legacy
Kiel died on September 10, 2014, just three days before his 75th birthday. His death was due to a heart attack. Kiel's legacy in the film industry is marked by his unique physical presence and his memorable performances, particularly as Jaws in the James Bond films. Despite often being cast as intimidating characters, Kiel was remembered by his peers as a gentle and kind-hearted man.