Kevin Peter Hall: The Predator & Harry - Facts & Untold Story
What if the imposing figure of a towering alien hunter, a creature of myth and menace, was also a man, a human being with dreams, vulnerabilities, and an all-too-brief life? This question leads us to the story of Kevin Peter Hall, an actor whose physical presence and talent left an indelible mark on the world of cinema, despite a life tragically cut short.
Hall, a man of extraordinary height, standing at a towering 7 feet 2 inches (2.18 meters), possessed a physical presence that naturally lent itself to the realm of monster movies. He wasn't just tall; he had the build, the presence, and the talent to embody the creatures that stalked our nightmares and captured our imaginations. His imposing stature was undeniable, and it became his calling card, the gateway to a career that, while brief, would become iconic.
His journey to Hollywood began in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he honed his skills as a basketball player at Penn Hills High School. Starting his junior year at 6' 5" and finishing at an incredible 6' 9", Hall was a force on the court, averaging 18 points and 10 rebounds per game. His athletic prowess earned him a scholarship to George Washington University in Washington, D.C. After graduating, he even played professional basketball in Venezuela, but the call of a different stage ultimately drew him to Los Angeles, California, where he pursued his passion for acting.
Hall's career, though sadly truncated, showcased his remarkable ability to inhabit diverse roles, from the menacing Predator to the gentle giant, Harry. His versatility was a testament to his talent, and his performances continue to resonate with audiences decades after his untimely passing. He appeared in 19 acting roles during his career, which is remarkable, and he also worked on several television shows. The year 1987 was the one that propelled him into the spotlight of the action film genre. His portrayal of the title character in the science fiction masterpiece "Predator" alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger was a landmark moment, cementing his status as a genre icon. The film was a massive success, showcasing his physical dominance and his ability to portray a complex character beneath the creature's imposing visage.
Beyond the Predator, Hall embraced the role of Harry in "Harry and the Hendersons," bringing a warmth and humanity to the character that transcended the creature's appearance. This role further demonstrated his range and ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. His portrayal of Harry wasn't just about the creature; it was about the heart. Hall brought a gentle vulnerability to the role that touched the hearts of viewers and made him a beloved figure.
Tragically, Kevin Peter Hall's life was cut short at the young age of 35. The circumstances surrounding his death added another layer of sorrow to his already poignant story. In the fall of 1990, a car accident resulted in injuries that necessitated a blood transfusion. Unbeknownst to him, the blood was contaminated with the HIV virus. This led to his contracting AIDS. Despite his attempts to fight the disease, the actor passed away on April 10, 1991, just four years after the cinematic world had taken him to its heart.
Hall's passing was a devastating blow to the film community and to those who admired his talent. He was a rising star, poised to make a lasting impact on the industry. The loss was made all the more tragic by the circumstances surrounding his death. Kevin Peter Hall's story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of appreciating the moments we have.
He made these memorable, he made them magical. Hall's talent shone through every role, making him a true star. Despite his limited time in the spotlight, his performances continue to captivate audiences around the world.
His father Charles Hall was 6'6" in height, and his mother Sylvia. He was a guest performer on 227. Reed married Hall in December 1988. Hall played basketball in high school and won a scholarship to George Washington University in Washington, D.C. In the fall of 1990, and his injuries required a blood transfusion. The blood he received was contaminated with the HIV virus.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kevin Peter Hall |
| Date of Birth | May 9, 1955 |
| Place of Birth | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Date of Death | April 10, 1991 (aged 35) |
| Place of Death | Hollywood, California, USA |
| Height | 7 ft 2 in (2.18 m) |
| Education | Penn Hills High School, George Washington University |
| Known For | Predator (1987, 1990), Harry and the Hendersons |
| Cause of Death | AIDS (complications from HIV contracted via blood transfusion) |
| Spouse | Alaina Reed Hall (m. 19881991) |
| Career | Actor |
| Years Active | 1979-1991 |
| Film Credits | 19 |
| Notable Roles | Predator, Harry in Harry and the Hendersons |
| Link | IMDb |
Hall's physical presence was truly remarkable. Standing at an imposing 7 ft 2 in (2.18 m), he was a natural fit for monster roles. The towering height, combined with his innate acting abilities, made him a perfect choice for such characters. He possessed the ability to make his characters feel alive, making the audience connect with them emotionally.
He left an unforgettable mark on the movie, and his performance remains iconic to this day. He was the original title monster in the science fiction Predator franchise, appearing in the first 1987 film and its 1990 sequel. He also played the bigfoot, Harry, in Harry and the Hendersons. He was an actor, with 19 credits to his name, while hes today still remembered for his portrayal of the predator, in the 1987 action adventure science fiction movie Predator. He also played an unnamed helicopter pilot in Predator, and portrayed the elder predator in Predator 2, although he was not credited for these roles.
Kevin Peter Hall's story serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of the AIDS epidemic and the importance of healthcare. His life, though tragically cut short, continues to inspire. His legacy lives on through the movies he made, the characters he embodied, and the memories he left behind. The tragic tale of Kevin Peter Hall should make people aware of the dangers of AIDS and HIV.
