Angus Scrimm, American actor and author (b. 1926)
Angus Scrimm: The Multifaceted Talent Behind Horror's Iconic Tall Man
Angus Scrimm, born Lawrence Rory Guy on August 19, 1926, and passing away on January 9, 2016, was a remarkably versatile American talent whose career spanned journalism, authorship, acting, and even comedy. He is most profoundly known and celebrated for his chilling and unforgettable portrayal of the enigmatic antagonist, the Tall Man, in Don Coscarelli's groundbreaking 1979 horror film Phantasm and its subsequent highly influential franchise. His ability to embody pure, unsettling menace with a commanding presence cemented his status as a horror legend.
A Career Beyond the Grave: Journalist, Author, and Actor
Before his transformation into a cinematic horror icon, Angus Scrimm cultivated a diverse and rich professional life. While "Angus Scrimm" later became his universally recognized stage name, it was initially a pen name he adopted during his extensive career as a journalist and author. His contributions were significant:
- Journalist and Film Critic: Scrimm was a prolific writer, contributing insightful articles and film reviews to respected publications such as TV Guide, Cinema Magazine, and American Heritage. His critical analyses showcased a deep appreciation and understanding of the entertainment industry, particularly cinema history.
- Author: Demonstrating his versatility, he authored several books, including children's stories like "Wiggle, Waggle, Woof" and "Wiggle, Waggle, Woo," under his birth name, Lawrence Guy. He also penned a book on the comedy duo Laurel and Hardy, further highlighting his breadth of interest and knowledge.
- Actor: Prior to his breakout role, Scrimm undertook various acting assignments, often in minor roles, slowly honing the craft that would later make him a household name among horror enthusiasts. His background also included voice acting work, providing narration for audiobooks.
- Comedian: Though less documented than his other pursuits, his early career involved elements of comedy, which subtly informed his later performances, allowing him to infuse even the darkest characters with an unexpected, dry wit.
The Enduring Legacy of The Tall Man in Phantasm
Angus Scrimm's most celebrated and iconic role, which immortalized him in horror folklore, was that of the Tall Man. In the independently produced 1979 cult classic Phantasm, directed by long-time collaborator Don Coscarelli, Scrimm's imposing height, piercing stare, and unsettlingly calm demeanor created a truly unique and terrifying villain. The character, an interdimensional undertaker, is infamous for transforming the deceased into diminutive, hooded slaves and unleashing flying, razor-sharp spheres capable of grotesque dismemberment. This role became a cornerstone of Scrimm's legacy, garnering him a devoted global fanbase and critical recognition within the horror genre. He masterfully reprised this chilling character across all entries of the beloved Phantasm saga:
- Phantasm II (1988)
- Phantasm III: Lord of the Dead (1994)
- Phantasm IV: Oblivion (1998)
- Phantasm: Ravager (2016), his final cinematic appearance, released posthumously as a testament to his enduring dedication to the series.
Scrimm's portrayal of the Tall Man transcended typical horror villainy, making him an enduring symbol of cosmic dread and a true horror legend. His distinct voice and menacing screen presence left an indelible mark on popular culture, influencing subsequent horror characterizations and reinforcing the power of unique villain archetypes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Angus Scrimm
- Who was Angus Scrimm?
- Angus Scrimm, born Lawrence Rory Guy, was an American actor, journalist, author, and comedian, best known for his iconic portrayal of the Tall Man in the Phantasm horror film series.
- What was Angus Scrimm's real name?
- His birth name was Lawrence Rory Guy. He adopted the pseudonym Angus Scrimm for much of his public and professional life.
- What is Angus Scrimm most famous for?
- He is most famous for playing the Tall Man, the primary antagonist in Don Coscarelli's 1979 horror film Phantasm and its subsequent four sequels.
- How many Phantasm movies did Angus Scrimm appear in?
- Angus Scrimm appeared as the Tall Man in all five films of the original Phantasm series: Phantasm (1979), Phantasm II (1988), Phantasm III: Lord of the Dead (1994), Phantasm IV: Oblivion (1998), and Phantasm: Ravager (2016).
- Who directed the Phantasm film series?
- The Phantasm film series was primarily directed by Don Coscarelli, who also wrote the screenplays for most of the films. The final film, Phantasm: Ravager, was directed by David Hartman based on a story by Coscarelli and Hartman.