Tom Towles

Born:March 20, 1950

Place of Birth:Chicago, Illinois, U.S.

Died:April 2, 2015

Known For:Acting

Biography

Tom Towles, a versatile American actor, was born and raised in the vibrant city of Chicago. His journey into the world of acting was unique, as it followed a stint in the U.S. Marines. Towles' career took off with an uncredited role in the classic film "Dog Day Afternoon" in 1975, setting the stage for his extensive work in both film and television throughout the 1980s and beyond.

One of Towles' most memorable performances was in "Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer," where he portrayed a character inspired by Ottis Toole, the alleged accomplice of serial killer Henry Lee Lucas. This role showcased Towles' ability to embody complex and chilling characters, earning him recognition among audiences and critics alike.

Throughout his career, Towles graced the screens in a variety of notable films such as "Night of the Living Dead," "The Rock," "House of 1000 Corpses," and its sequel, "The Devil's Rejects." His talent for portraying intense and menacing characters was further highlighted in his portrayal of a drug trafficking Aryan gang leader in the film adaptation of "Miami Vice," a role that added depth to his diverse filmography.

In addition to his work in film, Towles made impactful appearances on television, showcasing his range as an actor. His credits include roles in popular shows like "NYPD Blue," "ER," and "Firefly," where he left a lasting impression on viewers with his compelling performances. Towles' guest appearance on "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" in the episode "Dramatis Personae" and "Star Trek Voyager" further solidified his presence in the realm of science fiction.

Sadly, on April 2, 2015, Tom Towles passed away at the age of 65 in a hospital in Pinellas, Florida, due to complications following a stroke. Despite his untimely departure, Towles' contributions to the world of entertainment continue to resonate with fans and fellow artists, leaving behind a legacy of talent and dedication to his craft.

Tom Towles' impact on the film and television industry remains undeniable, with his ability to bring depth and authenticity to every character he portrayed. His legacy as a versatile and talented actor endures through his body of work, captivating audiences with his memorable performances and leaving a lasting imprint on the world of entertainment.

Images

Filmography

Acting

The Rock

Alcatraz Park Ranger

1996

When vengeful General Francis X. Hummel seizes control of Alcatraz Island and threatens to launch missiles loaded with deadly chemical weapons into San Francisco, only a young FBI chemical weapons expert and notorious Federal prisoner have the skills to penetrate the impregnable island fortress and take him down.

Halloween

Larry Redgrave

2007

The early years of young Michael Myers and the events leading up to his fateful Halloween night murder rampage in the quiet town of Haddonfield, Illinois.

Doctor Dolittle

German Shepherd (voice)

1998

A successful physician and devoted family man, John Dolittle seems to have the world by the tail, until a long suppressed talent he possessed as a child, the ability to communicate with animals is suddenly reawakened with a vengeance! Now every creature within squawking distance wants the good doctor's advice, unleashing an outrageous chain of events that turns his world upside down!

Miami Vice

Coleman

2006

A case involving drug lords and murder in South Florida takes a personal turn for undercover detectives Sonny Crockett and Ricardo Tubbs. Unorthodox Crockett gets involved romantically with the Chinese-Cuban wife of a trafficker of arms and drugs, while Tubbs deals with an assault on those he loves.

Dog Day Afternoon

Cop (uncredited)

1975

Based on the true story of would-be Brooklyn bank robbers John Wojtowicz and Salvatore Naturile. Sonny and Sal attempt a bank heist which quickly turns sour and escalates into a hostage situation and stand-off with the police. As Sonny's motives for the robbery are slowly revealed and things become more complicated, the heist turns into a media circus.

House of 1000 Corpses

George Wydell

2003

Two teenage couples traveling across the backwoods of Texas searching for urban legends of serial killers end up as prisoners of a bizarre and sadistic backwater family of serial killers.

Night of the Living Dead

Harry Cooper

1990

In this remake of the classic 1968 film, a group of people are trapped inside a farmhouse as legions of the walking dead try to get inside and use them for food.

The Devil's Rejects

Lieutenant George Wydell

2005

The murderous, backwoods Firefly family take to the road to escape the vengeful Sheriff Wydell, who is not afraid of being as ruthless as his target.

Fortress

Stiggs

1992

In the future, the inmates of a private underground prison are computer-controlled with cameras, dream readers, and devices that can cause pain or death. John and his illegally pregnant wife Karen are locked inside "The Fortress" but are determined to escape before the birth of their baby.

The Prophecy II

Detective Waltrip

1998

In this direct-to-video sequel, Gabriel returns to try to destroy the human race he despises so much, with the help of a suicidal teen and the opposition of the angel Daniel.

Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer

Otis

1986

Arriving in Chicago, Henry moves in with ex-con acquaintance Otis and starts schooling him in the ways of the serial killer.