Ed Gale, the actor and stunt performer best known for his physical portrayal of Chucky in several Child's Play films and for playing Howard the Duck, has died at the age of 61. Gale passed away on May 27, 2025, while receiving hospice care in Los Angeles. The news was confirmed by his family, with his niece, Kayse Gale, sharing a heartfelt tribute on Facebook. While the official cause of death was not immediately disclosed, it has been reported that Gale had been battling chronic heart and lung problems for many years.
Born on August 23, 1963, in Plainwell, Michigan, Ed Gale was an actor and stunt performer who began his career in the mid-1980s. Gale, who had dwarfism, moved to Los Angeles at the age of 20 with $41 and a dream. His physical stature contributed to his unique talent in Hollywood, leading to roles that many actors could not fulfill.
Gale made his film debut in 1986 as the physical performer of Howard the Duck in the film of the same name. While Chip Zien provided the voice, Gale wore the suit, bringing the Marvel character to life. In 1988, he took on the role of Chucky in the original Child's Play. Although Brad Dourif voiced the killer doll possessed by the soul of a serial killer, Gale provided the physical performance in Child's Play, Child's Play 2, and Bride of Chucky. His work helped establish Chucky as a horror icon.
Throughout his career, Gale amassed over 130 credits in films, television shows, and commercials. His other notable roles include Dink in Spaceballs, Tasha in the Land of the Lost television series, and appearances in Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey, Friday the 13th: The Series, Baywatch, 3rd Rock from the Sun, and My Name Is Earl. He also appeared in Tiptoes, a film about a family of people with dwarfism, alongside Matthew McConaughey and Gary Oldman.
Gale was a regular presence at fan conventions, where he shared stories and interacted with fans of his work. His niece, Kayse Gale, remembered him as a "fun uncle" who "delighted in the slow build up of telling a good story, and cheating at cribbage." She added, "He had one hell of a laugh, and he will be missed. Rest in love you cranky bastard."
In April 2023, Gale faced controversy when he was accused by an online group of soliciting sex from minors. The Los Angeles Police Department seized his smartphones, but he was never formally charged. In September 2023, the case was referred to the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office for a possible misdemeanor filing.
Despite the controversy, Ed Gale's contributions to cult cinema and his portrayal of iconic characters like Chucky and Howard the Duck have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. He is remembered by fans and colleagues for his unique talent and the spirit he brought to his roles.
