I was just got the news that Ben Chapman died today. He did a remarkable job as the creature on land and will be missed.
Being happy is like peeing your pants. others can see it, but only you can feel the warmth inside.
I hope he'll be missed enough that we get some showings on TCM in the next few weeks.
**Skin that Smokewagon and see what happens!** Tombstone
I had the pleasure of first meeting Ben many years ago at one of the dozens of conventions he attended.
I looked forward to seeing him every year after that, and he loved reminiscing about his gill-man days. He always remembered me and treated me like an old friend.
Truly a wonderful man...he will be missed.
Not many knew his name, or what he looked like, but countless millions were familiar with his best "performance"! He was so congenial on the CREATURE special features that it was indeed like finally meeting an old "friend" at last, and I'd "known" him almost 40 years by then!
"Stone-cold sober I find myself absolutely fascinating!"---Katharine Hepburn
I wonder why he didn't reprise the part in the sequels.
shareFrom the docs I watched about the movie he looked like a great guy who, unlike many of his contemporaries, was very proud to be part of a 'second-rate' Sci-Fi flick.
In 'Back to the Black Lagoon' he thanked all the fans for their following but I would like to thank him for an amazing performance which helped make the movie a timeless classic.
You were great dude! R.I.P.
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Chapman did not have it easy, having to lumber around in that suit, unable to see where he was going.
"Stone-cold sober I find myself absolutely fascinating!"---Katharine Hepburn
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"Had I been Chapman, and was asked to tour the world on a "Creature convention"..."
However, those "creature conventions" have been providing a very good living for some of the participants who, sadly, really would be forgotten now were it not for the fans who attend such conventions and spread the word.
"Stone-cold sober I find myself absolutely fascinating!"---Katharine Hepburn