Tattoo's Biography

Hervé Villechaize was a French-American actor best known for his iconic role as Tattoo on the hit TV series 'Fantasy Island' and as the villainous Nick Nack in the James Bond film 'The Man with the Golden Gun.' Born in Paris on April 23, 1943, Villechaize suffered from proportionate dwarfism, standing only 119 cm tall, but he never let his stature limit his ambitions. He began his career as an artist, becoming the youngest artist ever displayed at the Museum of Paris, and later moved to the United States to pursue acting. Villechaize's breakthrough came when he was cast as Nick Nack in the 1974 James Bond film, which brought him international fame. He achieved even greater recognition as Tattoo, delighting audiences with his enthusiastic catchphrase, "De plane! De plane!" Despite his fame, Villechaize struggled with personal and professional challenges, including highly publicized salary disputes and health issues related to his condition. He was also an advocate for those with dwarfism, using his platform to raise awareness. Villechaize was known for his artistic pursuits, including painting and photography, and had a passion for animals. Though he passed away in 1993, Villechaize remains a memorable figure in pop culture. He is categorized among notable actors, and his legacy endures through his unforgettable performances and enduring spirit.