Richard Kiel Dead at 74: James Bond Villain 'Jaws' Actor Passed Away in California; Sir Roger Moore 'Totally Distraught' [PHOTO]

According to Daily Mail, actor Richard Kiel, who was best known as the steel-toothed villain "Jaws" in 1970s James Bond films, died yesterday in a California hospital at the age of 74. The towering 7 ft 2 in actor portrayed the character of Jaws the mercenary assassin in The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) and Moonraker (1979) opposite Sir Roger Moore, who played James Bond at the time.

The New York Daily News reports that Kiel's Hollywood career spanned five decades, and that the actor was in dozens of films and TV shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "Gilligan's Island," and "The Incredible Hulk." However, the role of Jaws was by far his most famous role. Kiel stated, "I was a working actor for 17 years before playing Jaws in my first James Bond film. I suddenly became an overnight success," explaining his sudden stardom.

Kiel was able to make his character both entertaining and lovable. Even though he was playing an assassin, he wanted viewers to be able to connect with him. He described his role as "kind of like the roadrunner and the coyote. You feel kind of sorry for the coyote," further explaining his appeal.

The set of teeth his character wore was also very memorable - especially for Kiel. "Every night the teeth would go into a safe for safe-keeping," he recalled. "They were miserable. Instead of being made out of rubber they were made out of cobalt steel, like chromium steel. So it was kind of like swallowing a bumper of a car," he lamented.

Sir Roger Moore, 86, was very distraught by Kiel's passing. Moore stated, "I am totally distraught to learn of my dear friend Richard Kiel's passing. We were on a radio program together just a week ago. Distraught... Can't take it in."

Adam Sandler also gave his respects. The star acted alongside Kiel in Happy Gilmore, and stated, "Richard Kiel was one of the nicest, funniest guys I've ever met...Richard is a special man. My thoughts are with his family."

Kiel's death was confirmed by Kelley Sanchez, director of communications at Saint Agnes Medical Center where Kiel recently attended to receive treatment for his broken leg. It has not been confirmed whether his death was related to the injury.