- Born
- Died
- Height6′ 5″ (1.96 m)
- Tom Hennesy began his movie and TV career as a Stuntman and Actor, while he was in college and playing football at USC. Hennesy played the title role in the classic Universal horror film "Revenge Of The Creature" (the sequel to the Creature From The Black Lagoon). Hennesy acted and performed stunts in numerous John Wayne and John Ford films. Hennesy was the stunt double for many stars, including Rock Hudson, Randolph Scott, Rod Cameron, Jeff Chandler, and more.
Hennesy also worked as a General Secondary, as well as Elementary School Teacher in many Hollywood studios. His celebrity students included, among others, Natalie Wood, Annette Funicello, Paul Anka, Sal Mineo, Tim Considine, Molly Bee, Tommy Rettig, and Lauren Chapin.- IMDb Mini Biography By: meml
- In the movie "Big Jake" Tom fights John Wayne and Wayne loses. It was the first time in Wayne's long career that he lost a fight. Unless you care to count "The Life of Jimmy Dolan" (1933) in which offscreen he is beaten badly in the ring by Sammy Stein or "Pittsburgh" (1942) in which Randolph Scott prevails in what might be considered a return bout with Wayne who prevailed in "The Spoilers" (also 1942).
- Tom made roaring and growling noises throughout the filming of Revenge Of The Creature while playing the Gill Man. Producers liked the sound so much they left it in the film instead of using animal sound effects. It is believed his noises were also dubbed into the final film in the trilogy, The Creature Walks Among us.
- A skilled horseman, and knowledgeable animal enthusiast. Owned a multitude of horses and other animals throughout his life.
- Proficient in many sports, including boxing, and fought in the Golden Gloves tournament.
- Became a teacher, then ran his family's oil production company until its sale in 1991.
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