Robert Tessier

Robert W. Tessier (June 2, 1934 – October 11, 1990) was an American actor and stuntman who was best known for playing heavy, menacing characters in films and on television.

Robert Tessier
Born(1934-06-02)June 2, 1934
Lowell, Massachusetts, US
DiedOctober 11, 1990(1990-10-11) (aged 56)
Lowell, Massachusetts, US
Occupationactor, stuntman

Early life

Born in Lowell, Massachusetts, of Algonquian descent, Tessier served as a paratrooper in the Korean War earning both a Silver Star and Purple Heart.[1]

Performing career

Tessier was an accomplished motorcycle rider doing stunts in the circus. These skills helped him secure his first film role in The Born Losers directed by Tom Laughlin.

With his shaven head, size and threatening appearance, Tessier went on to play a series of villainous roles on both TV and in film. He later formed a stunt troupe called Stunts Unlimited with director Hal Needham.

Tessier starred as the menacing convict "Connie Shokner" in the 1974 comedy-drama The Longest Yard with Burt Reynolds (whom he counted as one of his friends) and as Kevin in The Deep. He also played alongside Charles Bronson, as a bare knuckle fighter in the film Hard Times and as a main villain in Breakheart Pass.

In his spare time, Tessier was an accomplished cabinet maker often making pieces for his co-stars.

Death

Tessier died of cancer October 11, 1990, aged 56. He was survived by his five children, mother and two sisters.[2]

Filmography

Television

References
  1. "Robert Tessier; 20 Years as Tough Guy in TV, Movies". Los Angeles Times. October 19, 1990. Retrieved September 6, 2019.
  2. "Movies Villain Robert Tessier". Bangor Daily News. Associated Press. October 20, 1990. p. 10. Retrieved July 15, 2020.
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