A multi-talented magazine editor, author, documentarian, and most notoriously an actor, Gunnar Hansen brought to life one of the horror film genre’s most frightful and deeply adored monsters. Hansen portrayed Leatherface, the psychotic cannibal killer at the forefront of Toby Hooper‘s 1973 classic The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and in so created an icon that is still feared and appreciated today.
The actor’s agent has confirmed that Hansen passed away at the age of 68 after losing his battle with Pancreatic Cancer. His legacy as one of the frontrunners in the building of the modern slasher genre will continue on long after his death, and the importance that this title holds for the genre as a whole is a credit to the work that he gave during his life.
Hansen’s Leatherface has inspired numerous other actors and directors in the recreation of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, but of course none of whom have compared to the genius of the original work. A villain we could cower away from but also feel sorry for. A villain taunted by his family, wearing various masks made of human skin to complete murderous tasks or cope with his loved ones. You can watch the original trailer below.
In mourning for Gunnar Hansen, we can also take this time to appreciate and thank him for his accomplishments. Bringing to life one of the Horror film genre’s most beloved villains, with the ability to scare generation after generation of film lovers. May he Rest In Peace.
#Peace.Love.GunnarHansen
