Donald Gibb has died at the age of 71.
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TMZ first reported the news. The actor's son shared that he was suffering from ongoing health complications. At the time of his death on May 12, Gibb was surrounded by his loving family in his Texas home.
While Gibb worked steadily as an actor for decades, what he may be best known for depends on the viewer's taste. Comedy fans will instantly recognize Gibb for his role as Ogre in the Revenge of the Nerds franchise. Action enthusiasts know the imposing actor as Kumite fighter Ray Jackson in Bloodsport and its sequel, Bloodsport II: The Next Kumite.
Donald Gibb Started Out as an NFL Player
Gibb was born in New York on August 4, 1954, but was raised in California. Standing over six feet tall, he attended the University of New Mexico thanks to a basketball scholarship. He then played football on scholarship for the University of San Diego.
After a car accident ended his short football career with the San Diego Chargers, Gibb began acting, taking small roles in films such as Stripes and Conan the Barbarian.
Gibb used his background in college athletics in his breakthrough as Fred "Ogre" Palowaski in the Revenge of the Nerds franchise. He also parlayed his experiences in the HBO sitcom 1st and Ten. The show revolved around the fictional football team, the California Bulls. The actor played Leslie "Dr. Death" Krunchner for the show's entire seven-season run.
Gibb Didn't Just Make Audiences Laugh
Gibb built a reputation as an actor who balanced toughness with humor. But he was also a reliable action film star.
His portrayal of Ray Jackson, the American entrant into the Kumite, the no-holds-barred tournament at the center of the Bloodsport franchise, led to parts in several direct-to-video films as well as high-profile roles in U.S. Marshals and Hancock.
Gibb's son shared that his father loved the Lord and his family, friends, and fans with all his heart. The actor's family is asking for prayers and privacy during this difficult time.
