Jaws's Biography

Richard Kiel was an American actor best known for his towering height and memorable portrayal of the steel-toothed villain 'Jaws' in the James Bond films 'The Spy Who Loved Me' (1977) and 'Moonraker' (1979). Born on September 13, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, Kiel's unique physical stature—standing 218 cm tall—made him a natural fit for imposing roles in Hollywood. He began his career with minor parts, but his first significant breakthrough came with the cult classic 'Eegah' in 1962. Over the years, Kiel appeared in numerous television shows and movies, including 'The Longest Yard', 'Silver Streak', and 'Happy Gilmore'. Apart from acting, he was a writer and part-owner of a golf course, reflecting his diverse interests outside of film. Kiel was known for his gentle personality off-screen, in stark contrast to his intimidating on-screen characters. Married to Diane Rogers, he was a devoted husband and father to four children. His career earned him financial stability, with an estimated net worth of $550,000 in 2024, and a reputation as one of the most recognizable character actors of his era. Richard Kiel's legacy remains strong through his iconic performances and his commitment to his craft and family.