When examining horror films, especially independent horror films, there’s few that can stack up against the epic credibility that is Angus Scrimm. That is why it is so sad that I must confirm that the veteran horror actor has passed away, aged 89. His former director, Don Coscarelli confirmed the tragic news by saying, “Angus Scrimm passed away peacefully tonight surrounded by his friends and loved ones. His performance as ‘The Tall Man’ is a towering achievement in horror film history. He was the last in a long line of classic horror movie stars. He was a terrific actor and an even better friend. He will be missed.”
Although Scrimm is most known for playing The Tall Man in Phantasm (1979), Phantasm 2 (1988), Phantasm 3 (1994), Phantasm 4 (1998) and was tapped for the upcoming reboot Phantasm 5 (2016), he also had a number of other roles in the horror of science fiction genres. These roles include lead and supporting parts in Sweet Kill (1972), Scream Bloody Murder (1973), Witches’ Brew (1980), Chopping Mall (1986), Subspecies (1991), Vampirella (1996), Wishmaster (1997), Legend of the Phantom Rider (2002), The Off Season (2004), Satanic (2006), Automatons (2006), I Sell the Dead (2008), Satan Hates You (2010), John Dies at the End (2012) and Disciples (2015).
He also held a recurring role as Calvin McCullough on the hit show “Alias” from 2001 to 2015.
All of us here at HorrorSociety.com send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and fans. He was truly a legend, one who dedicated his entire career to our favorite genre and for that we will always be thankful.
R.I.P. Angus Scrimm
August 19, 1926 – January 10, 2016
