Michigan Man Who Played Chucky and Howard the Duck Has Died

I'm sorry to say I'd never realized until I read about his death at the age of 61, but Edward Gale, formerly of Plainwell, Michigan, is probably part of what fueled your nightmares as a kid.

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The 3-foot-4 actor's niece, Kayse Gale, took to Facebook on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, to share the news of her uncle's passing. Though you may not recognize his face, you'll no doubt be amazed at the late actor's body of work.

Edward Gale’s Early Life in Plainwell, Michigan

According to the post, Gale left Plainwell, Michigan, at the age of 21 with a dream and $41 to his name. Entertainment Tonight reports that his major gig would be the 1986 box office bomb, Howard the Duck, while Gale would perform the physical work inside the costume, and Brad Dourif would lend Chucky his chilling voice.

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It wouldn't be until 1988 that Gale would get his "big break" playing the iconic killer doll, Chucky, in Child's Play. Brad Dourif would provide the voice of the serial killer, but the stabbing, jumping, and running were all done by Gale.

Over 130 Roles, From Spaceballs to Clooney

According to The Hollywood Reporter, his career would span over 130 movies, TV shows, and commercials. Some of his other credits include Spaceballs, Unstrung Heroes, Mom and Dad Save the World, Wes Craven's New Nightmare, Chopper Chicks in Zombietown, and even George Clooney's O Brother, Where Art Thou.

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Remembering a Horror Icon With Michigan Roots

Condolences to Gale's family. A life well-lived and a legacy that lives on in movie marathons. Not bad for a guy from Plainwell, Michigan, with a dream and forty-one bucks.