Chucky Actor Ed Gale Dead at 61: Horror Icon Passes Away

Ed Gale, known for portraying Chucky in the "Child’s Play" film series, has passed away at the age of 61. A source told TMZ that he died Tuesday while in hospice care in Los Angeles.His niece, Kayse, confirmed his passing with a heartfelt tribute on Facebook.

“With heavy hearts and a touch of humor (catch my drift?), we share the sudden loss of our uncle,” Kayse wrote. “Ed Gale has taken his final bow and is now starring in the afterlife.”

She reflected on Gale’s Hollywood career, which spanned over 130 films, TV shows, and commercials, writing, “With such a diverse body of work, he leaves behind a legacy filled with quirky lighting choices and unforgettable one-liners.”

The tribute went on to say, “Ed’s favorite role was being the ‘fun uncle.’ He expressed his love by sharing his passion for the entertainment industry and the magic of Hollywood with his nieces.”

“He had an unforgettable laugh, and he will be deeply missed,” Kayse added. “Rest in love, you lovable crank.”

Gale was born with dwarfism and raised in Plainwell, Michigan

In 1986, Gale made his film debut in the title role of Howard the Duck.

Two years later, he brought the iconic killer doll to life as Chucky in 1988’s Child’s Play, the first installment of the now-famous horror franchise. Directed by Tom Holland, the film also starred Chris Sarandon, Catherine Hicks, Alex Vincent, Dinah Manoff, and Tommy Swerdlow.

Gale reprised his role as Chucky in Child’s Play 2 (1990) and Bride of Chucky (1998).

Gale also appeared in films such as Spaceballs, The Jungle Book, and Tiptoes.

On television, he starred in the 1990s children’s series Land of the Lost and made guest appearances on shows like Weird Science, Family Matters, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and My Name Is Earl.