George P. Wilbur, the actor and stuntman who played the iconic horror villain Michael Myers in two Halloween films, passed away on February 1, 2023. He was 81 years old. His death was announced by his friend and fellow stuntman Chris Durand on Facebook
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A Long and Diverse Career in Hollywood
Wilbur was born in Connecticut on March 6, 1941. He served in the United States Navy and later worked as a wrangler on a ranch in Tucson, Arizona. There, he got his first break in the film industry as a stand-in for John Wayne in the 1966 film El Dorado
He then moved to California and worked as an extra and stunt double for various films and television shows. He performed stunts for over 100 projects, including Blazing Saddles, The Notebook, The Running Man, Raw Deal, Firestarter, Magnum, P.I., Dynasty, and Simon & Simon. He was a member of the Hollywood Stuntmen’s Hall of Fame
He also acted in several films, most notably as Michael Myers in Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers (1988) and Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers (1995). He was the first actor to play the masked killer twice in the franchise. He also had a cameo as a bailiff in Ghostbusters II (1989) and played minor roles in other films such as Split Decisions, Come See the Paradise, Eve of Destruction, and Defenseless
A Beloved Figure Among Horror Fans
Wilbur was widely regarded as one of the best actors to portray Michael Myers, the silent and relentless serial killer who terrorized Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) and her family in the Halloween series. He brought a physical presence and a menacing aura to the role that made him a fan favorite.
He was also known for being a kind and humble person who enjoyed meeting his fans at horror conventions and events. He often signed autographs and posed for photos with his signature mask. He was praised by his co-stars and colleagues for being a professional and a gentleman on set
A Natural Death Surrounded by Loved Ones
According to his friend Chris Durand, Wilbur died of natural causes on February 1, 2023. He did not reveal any more details about his death or his health condition prior to his passing. He simply expressed his condolences and admiration for Wilbur in his Facebook post.
He wrote: “George P. Wilbur passed away last night. George, you were a class act and well-loved. You will be missed. May you rest in peace.”
Wilbur is survived by his wife, two children, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and stunts that will continue to entertain and inspire generations of fans and filmmakers
