Quick Facts
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William Engesser (February 21, 1939 – June 20, 2002) was an American film actor active in the 1960s through the mid-1970s. His tall stature (7'3" tall) made him suitable for imposing, intimidating characters.
Early life
Engesser was born as William Leroy Engesser Jr. on February 21, 1939, in Wayne, Pennsylvania.
He attended El Monte High School in El Monte, California. In high school, he was a highly scouted basketball recruit.
He was often linked with Wilt Chamberlain due to his height. He eventually ended up playing for the University of Southern California, but, only played for 4 games during the 1958–1959 season scoring 2 points.
Career
Engesser made his acting debut in 1962 in House on Bare Mountain, starring Bob Cresse and Laine Carlin. In 1975, he was seen in the role of Monster in "Dr. Whatsisname" episode of the TV series The Ghost Busters. The same year, he was also seen in an episode each of TV series The Secrets of Isis and Switch.
Engesser was last seen in 1976 in Burt Reynolds's action film Gator. He played the role of "Bones," bodyguard of "Bama McCall" character (played by Jerry Reed).
He also had a bit part as a man in a gym in Jerry Lewis' 1963 comedy The Nutty Professor starring Lewis, Stella Stevens, and Del Moore.
In his later years, Engesser lived in Pinson, Alabama, where he was a co-owner of BigFoot Auto parts.
Personal life
Engesser was married to Marjorie Idell Gain.
Death
Engesser died on June 20, 2002, in Pinson, Alabama. He was 63.