Ricou Browning’s death has left his family and fans devastated.
Yesterday, a legendary figure in the world of cinema passed away; Ricou Browning died at the age of 93. He was widely known as the ‘Gill-Man’ in the 1954 movie, ‘Creature From the Black Lagoon.’
Both his son and daughter shared the news of his death. According to Ricou Browning Jr., he lost his life due to natural causes while surrounded by his family in his home in Southwest Ranches, Florida.
His daughter fondly remembered her father’s career in film and described it as “providing wonderful entertainment for past and future generations.” The entertainment industry has lost an inspiring icon, and fans everywhere are devastated to hear of this great loss.
Ricou Browning, an iconic actor in Hollywood’s film industry, made a lasting impression from his career of over 50 years. His daughter, Kim Browning, spoke of her immense admiration for her father’s work when confirming his death to The Hollywood Reporter
As well as filling the Gill-Man suit for parts of the renowned Black Lagoon films, Browning had contributed to numerous other films with roles spanning stuntman, director, and more.
His stuntman credits include classic films such as 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and Don’t Give Up the Ship. As a director, Browning was responsible for some unforgettable scenes like those in Caddyshack and James Bond’s Thunderball.
He certainly left an indelible mark on Hollywood and was revered by many during his incredible career. Roy “Cougar” Browning was a legend in the Florida film industry, having been born in Fort Pierce and attending Florida State University.
For his many years of service, he was rewarded with the state’s first-ever Florida Legends Award from Film Florida.
His legacy lives on through his four surviving children: Ricou Browning Jr., Renee, Kelly, and Kim, along with ten grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. His wife Fran, sadly passed away in March 2020.
About Ricou Browning’s Career
Ricou Browning’s storied career began as a teenager when he worked for Newt Perry as a stand-in for Johnny Weissmuller on “Tarzan” films and also appeared in underwater newsreels as well as water shows at Weeki Wachee Springs
He also served on the US Air Force swim team and was elected to lead the Florida Motion Picture & Television Association in 1968.
Browning gained fame for portraying the Gill-Man in the classic movie “Creature from the Black Lagoon,” starring alongside Julie Adams and Richard Carlson as two characters exploring the Amazon.
Initially, he found the costume “awkward and clumsy,” but once he was in character, he forgot he had it on and fully embodied the creature.
He reprised the role in two sequels, “Revenge of the Creature” and “The Creature Walks Among Us.”In addition to acting, Browning co-created the beloved movie and TV show “Flipper” after capturing freshwater dolphins in the Amazon and bringing them back to Florida.
He directed over 30 episodes of the show after it became a hit. Browning was born and raised in Florida and spent his early years in the water, performing at Weeki Wachee Springs and even joining the U.S. Air Force swim team.
Despite initially finding the Gill-Man costume cumbersome, Browning didn’t let it hinder his performance, and even filmed water scenes in freezing temperatures.
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