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Angus Scrimm, best known for playing The Tall Man in Phantasm and its sequels, has died aged 89.

Director Don Coscarelli broke the news in an email to Entertainment Weekly:  “Angus Scrimm passed away peacefully tonight surrounded by his friends and loved one. [His] performance as the Tall Man is a towering achievement in horror film history. He was the last in a long line of classic horror movie stars. He was a terrific actor and an even better friend. He will be missed.”

In addition to his many screen roles, Scrimm was an acclaimed writer, winning a Grammy for his liner notes. His acting roles included John Dies at the End, and a recurring role on Alias.

Tributes have been pouring in on twitter since the news of his death on January 9th was announced. “Class act. Soft spoken. Old school. Honored to work with him. Credit to his craft. Safe passage,” wrote Bruce Campbell who appeared with him in Mindwarp. Scrimm’s final role – appropriately as the Tall Man once more – was in Phantasm Ravager, out later this year.