Hollywood has lost one of its most beloved and instantly recognizable figures—though few ever saw his true face on screen.

Known for his small stature but towering presence in cult classics, this actor built a reputation for bringing unforgettable characters to life, often from beneath layers of costume and makeup.

He arrived in California with nothing but a dream and $41 in his pocket, determined to leave his mark. And he did—over a career spanning decades, he appeared in more than 130 films, shows, and commercials.

Whether it was a late-night horror flick or a campy comedy, he had a knack for stealing scenes with just a look or a line.

His sense of humor was legendary, both on and off camera. He loved bad hotdogs, hated political talk shows for reasons only he knew, and never missed an opportunity to tell a great story—or cheat at cribbage with a wink. His family remembers him as both a showman and a softie, especially when it came to sharing his passion for Hollywood with his nieces.

Now, fans around the world are mourning the loss of Ed Gale, the man behind the original Chucky in Child’s Play (1988). He passed away in hospice care in Los Angeles at age 61. He also made his mark in Howard the Duck and Chopper Chicks in Zombietown, becoming a legend at conventions and in fan circles across generations.