Actor Donald Gibb, best known for playing Ogre in the cult classic Revenge of the Nerds franchise, has died at 71.
Gibb’s representative, Tina Presley Borek, confirmed the actor’s death to USA Today on Wednesday, May 13, sharing a statement from his children.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald Gibb — a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and actor,” the statement said.
“Donald loved the Lord, his family, his friends and his fans with all his heart. Known for his larger-than-life presence on screen and his kindness off screen, he brought joy, laughter and unforgettable memories to countless people throughout his life and career.”
Gibb, who had been dealing with ongoing health issues, died Tuesday at his home in Texas due to complications from his condition, his son Travis told TMZ.
His death comes three months after the passing of his Revenge of the Nerds co-star Robert Carradine, who died by suicide at 71.
Donald Gibb was born on August 4, 1954, in New York City and raised in California, Gibb initially pursued sports before turning to acting. Standing 6-foot-4 with an imposing build, he often landed roles as tough guys, athletes, and intimidating characters throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
Before his acting career took off, Gibb attended the University of New Mexico on a basketball scholarship and later transferred to the University of San Diego, where he played football. His breakout role came in 1984 with Revenge of the Nerds, where his portrayal of Ogre became one of the film’s most memorable characters. He reprised the role in several sequels.
Gibb also appeared in a number of popular movies and TV shows, including Bloodsport alongside Jean-Claude Van Damme, as well as 1st & Ten, The A-Team, MacGyver, and Walker, Texas Ranger. The actor’s final screen role was Bas in the action thriller Hands, which premiered in January. Despite often playing intimidating figures on screen, colleagues and fans frequently described him as warm, funny, and kindhearted in real life.
Outside Hollywood, Gibb later became involved in the bar and restaurant business in Chicago. Per IMDb, he co-owns Trader Todd’s.
