Kevin Peter Hall: How Tall Was The Predator Actor?

Just how tall was the actor who brought the terrifying Predator to life, and who also played the equally memorable Harry in "Harry and the Hendersons"? Kevin Peter Hall, a towering figure in Hollywood, stood an impressive 7 feet 2 inches tall, a height that significantly shaped his acting career.

Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on May 9, 1955, Hall's imposing stature naturally led him toward roles that capitalized on his unique physique. While he has a relatively small number of credits to his name, his physical presence and talent ensured that the Predator became a cult classic, and he remains an iconic figure in science fiction and monster movie history. Hall sadly passed away on April 10, 1991, in Hollywood, California, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances, despite the brevity of his career.

Full Name	Kevin Peter Hall
Date of Birth	May 9, 1955
Place of Birth	Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Date of Death	April 10, 1991
Place of Death	Hollywood, California, USA
Height	7 feet 2 inches (2.18 meters)
Profession	Actor
Known For	Predator (1987), Predator 2 (1990), Harry and the Hendersons (1987)
Education	Penn Hills High School
Notable Career Highlights	Portraying the Predator in the "Predator" franchise, and Harry in "Harry and the Hendersons"
Link to Reference	IMDB

Hall's height wasn't just a physical attribute; it was a defining element of his career, influencing the roles he took and the impact he made on audiences. He was often cast in roles that required a commanding presence, capitalizing on his ability to tower over his co-stars and create a sense of awe or terror.

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Before his acting career took off, Hall had a keen interest and aptitude for basketball. He began his junior year at Penn Hills High School at 6'5" and finished at 6'9". He averaged an impressive 18 points per game and 10 rebounds, displaying athleticism and coordination that would serve him well in the action-oriented roles he later embraced. While he pursued basketball during college, it was not at the expense of his studies. His academic endeavors remained a priority alongside his sporting activities.

The role of the Predator in the 1987 film, "Predator," catapulted Hall to international recognition. Encased in a formidable costume, Hall brought a sense of menace and otherworldly power to the creature, making the Predator one of the most memorable movie monsters of all time. His portrayal was not just physical; he imbued the character with a sense of calculated intelligence and relentless pursuit that made it a compelling antagonist, one that struck fear into the heart of Arnold Schwarzenegger's character and audiences alike. This role proved to be his most prominent, solidifying his place in cinematic history, also appearing in its sequel, "Predator 2."

Hall's physicality, however, didn't solely define his career. He showed versatility in his portrayal of "Harry," the titular Bigfoot in "Harry and the Hendersons," a family-friendly comedy where he brought warmth and humanity to the character. This performance demonstrated his ability to transcend the limitations of physical casting and portray both terrifying and endearing characters. The role was a significant departure from the menacing Predator, showcasing his range as an actor.

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Hall was often hidden behind the heavy makeup and costume of his most famous roles. His face was often obscured, yet his talent allowed him to convey emotion and personality through his movements and physicality. This skill set him apart and made him a sought-after performer for roles that required a unique physical presence. His towering height naturally lent itself to roles where his physical dominance was a key element of the character.

The family of Kevin Peter Hall was known for its height; his father, Charles Hall, stood at 6'6", and his mother, Sylvia Hall, was 6'2". His six brothers were also all over 6'5". This genetic predisposition undoubtedly contributed to Kevin's exceptional height and the physical presence that defined his career. His exceptional height and the athleticism he showed during high school, combined with acting talent, allowed him to achieve notoriety in an industry known for demanding versatility and, occasionally, specific physical attributes.

The Predator, the terrifying being that sent Arnold Schwarzenegger and his companions trembling, was none other than Kevin Peter Hall. A giant of 2.19 meters, who with his imposing size and physique, embodied the Predator with frightening intensity. Hall's portrayal was crucial for the film's success, as it created a formidable and terrifying antagonist, adding significantly to the film's suspense and action.

In a famous photo with Arnold Schwarzenegger, the contrast in height is visually striking. Schwarzenegger is seen bending to emphasize Hall's height even further. This photo has become a lasting reminder of Hall's imposing stature, but it doesn't quite capture the full impact he could have on screen, in a physical sense. It showcases the sheer difference in their physiques.

Kevin Peter Hall's impact on the entertainment world is significant. While his career was tragically cut short, the roles he played, particularly the Predator, remain iconic. His height was integral to the characters he portrayed, enabling him to create memorable figures that captivated audiences. His ability to embody both menacing and sympathetic characters demonstrated his talent and range as an actor, and his legacy continues to influence the way we think about monster characters and those actors who play them.

Hall's career reflects how physical traits can dramatically shape an actor's career, providing unique opportunities. He was a versatile actor who created a lasting impact within the genre films. From the relentless hunter in "Predator" to the gentle giant in "Harry and the Hendersons," Hall's performances demonstrated his talent and adaptability, proving that his physical presence was but one aspect of his talent.

The actor's height of 7 feet 2 inches was a major factor in securing him these specific roles. These characters required not just physical dominance but the ability to utilize their height to create tension, suspense, and a sense of otherworldliness. Hall, therefore, was able to use his size effectively, and his ability to convey complex emotions beneath layers of makeup or special effects made his performances all the more impressive.

Hall's career is a testament to his talent, and his remarkable height played a role in establishing him as a significant figure in the entertainment industry. Hall's impact on the genre endures, and his contributions to film are remembered fondly by generations of audiences. He managed to leave a distinct mark on the industry, proving how a unique physical attribute could combine with natural talent to make an enduring impact.

Throughout his career, Halls height often necessitated specialized costuming and set design to accommodate his frame. He navigated this in his work. The practical challenges and visual opportunities created by his height. He was always able to work within these parameters to bring his characters to life.

The lasting impact of Kevin Peter Hall extends beyond his specific roles, but also in the way he helped shape how we view the actor's persona. His career became a landmark in itself, highlighting the diversity and creativity of performers in film. His ability to embody both the frightening and the humane, despite having relatively few movie credits, has secured him a permanent place in the hearts of many moviegoers and within the industry.