Angus Scrimm was an American actor best known for his role as The Tall Man in the Phantasm movie series, along with appearances in various horror films and television shows. Born Lawrence Rory Guy, he became a well-recognized figure in the horror genre.
Personal and Family Life
Angus Scrimm was born on August 19, 1926, in Kansas City, Kansas. He spent his teenage years in California where he pursued drama studies at the University of Southern California. He faced significant health challenges in his youth, contracting tuberculosis, which led to a long recovery period during which he immersed himself in literature.
Career
After adopting the stage name Angus Scrimm, he made his film debut in the mid-1970s, ultimately achieving fame for his chilling portrayal of The Tall Man in the Phantasm films. He enjoyed a diverse acting career, taking on various roles in horror, sci-fi, and other genres, while also contributing to journalism and writing liner notes for music albums.
Death and Legacy
Angus Scrimm passed away on January 9, 2016, in Tarzana, California, due to natural causes. He left behind a legacy that includes not only his iconic role in horror cinema but also a variety of performances that earned him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim throughout his career.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Wishmaster | 1997-09-19 | Narrator (voice) |
| I Sell the Dead | 2008-08-07 | Dr. Vernon Quint |
| Subspecies | 1991-08-08 | King Vladislav |
| Phantasm | 1979-03-28 | The Tall Man |
| Satan Hates You | 2010-07-10 | Dr. Michael Gabriel |
| Phantasm II | 1988-07-08 | The Tall Man |
| Phantasm III: Lord of the Dead | 1994-05-06 | The Tall Man |
| Phantasm IV: Oblivion | 1998-07-31 | The Tall Man / Dr. Jebediah Morningside |
| John Dies at the End | 2013-01-25 | Father Shellnut |
| Deadfall | 1993-10-08 | Dr. Lyme |
| Transylvania Twist | 1989-10-01 | Stefen |
| Phantasm: Ravager | 2016-10-07 | The Tall Man |
| Mindwarp | 1992-05-25 | Seer / Systems Operator |