Denny Miller
Actor
About Denny Miller
Denny Miller was an American actor and former college basketball player who stood 6'4" tall, which became his trademark in Hollywood. Born in 1934, he attended UCLA where he played basketball under legendary coach John Wooden before being discovered by a talent scout while working as a bellhop at the Beverly Hills Hotel. MGM signed him to a contract in the late 1950s, and he made his film debut opposite Elizabeth Taylor in 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' (1958). Throughout his career, Miller appeared in numerous films and television shows, often playing tall, imposing characters or athletic roles. He became a familiar face to television audiences through guest appearances on popular series like 'Wagon Train,' 'Gilligan's Island,' and 'The Love Boat.' His career spanned over five decades, from the 1950s through the 2000s, during which he appeared in more than 100 film and television productions. In his later years, he also worked as a commercial spokesperson and authored books about his Hollywood experiences.
The Craft
On Screen
Miller was known for his commanding presence due to his height and athletic build, often cast in roles that required physicality. His acting style was straightforward and naturalistic, fitting well within the classical Hollywood system. He excelled at playing authoritative figures, athletes, and rugged characters, bringing authenticity to physical roles while maintaining a likable screen presence.
Milestones
- Discovered while working as a bellhop at Beverly Hills Hotel
- Signed to MGM contract in late 1950s
- Film debut in 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' (1958)
- Regular role as Duke Shannon on 'Wagon Train' (1961-1962)
- Played Tarzan in 'Tarzan, the Ape Man' (1959)
- Appeared in over 100 film and television productions
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- UCLA Athletic Hall of Fame inductee
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Denny Miller represented the classic Hollywood archetype of the athlete-turned-actor, following in the footsteps of stars like Johnny Weissmuller. His imposing height and athletic build made him a distinctive presence in films and television during the Golden Age of Hollywood's transition to television. As one of the few actors to play Tarzan in the sound era, he contributed to the ongoing cultural fascination with the character. His long career spanned the major shifts in Hollywood production, from the studio system to independent television production.
Lasting Legacy
Miller's legacy lies in his versatility as a character actor who successfully transitioned from leading man roles to supporting parts as Hollywood evolved. His athletic background brought authenticity to physical roles, and his longevity in the industry demonstrated his adaptability. As a UCLA basketball star who became a successful actor, he paved the way for other athlete-actors in Hollywood. His memoirs and books about his experiences provide valuable insights into the Hollywood studio system and the television industry of the mid-20th century.
Who They Inspired
Miller influenced later generations of character actors by demonstrating the value of physical presence and authenticity in casting. His successful transition from sports to entertainment served as a model for other athletes seeking careers in film and television. His work in television during its golden age helped establish conventions for guest starring roles and character development in episodic television.
Off Screen
Denny Miller was married to Nancy Miller for over 50 years until her death in 2018. The couple had two children together. Miller was known for his athletic pursuits beyond acting, maintaining his basketball skills throughout his life and participating in celebrity sports events. He was also an accomplished writer, authoring several books about his experiences in Hollywood and his athletic career.
Education
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) - Bachelor's degree, played basketball for the UCLA Bruins under coach John Wooden
Family
- Nancy Miller (1963-2018)
Did You Know?
- At 6'4", he was one of the tallest actors of his generation
- Was discovered by a talent scout while working as a bellhop at the Beverly Hills Hotel
- Played basketball for UCLA under legendary coach John Wooden
- Was one of the few actors to portray Tarzan in the sound era
- Appeared as a contestant on 'The Dating Game' in the 1960s
- Worked as a commercial spokesman for various products in his later career
- Wrote several books about his Hollywood experiences
- Was a regular on the celebrity golf circuit
- His height sometimes limited the types of roles he could play
- Appeared in more than 100 television episodes throughout his career
In Their Own Words
Being tall in Hollywood is like being a giant in a dollhouse - you stand out, but sometimes you don't fit in the right places.
Basketball taught me discipline and teamwork, which helped me survive in the competitive world of Hollywood.
Playing Tarzan wasn't just about the physical aspect; it was about capturing the wildness and nobility of the character.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Denny Miller?
Denny Miller was an American actor and former UCLA basketball player known for his 6'4" height and his roles in films and television from the 1950s through the 2000s. He appeared in over 100 productions and was particularly known for his role as Duke Shannon on 'Wagon Train' and for playing Tarzan in 'Tarzan, the Ape Man' (1959).
What films is Denny Miller best known for?
Denny Miller is best known for 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' (1958), 'Tarzan, the Ape Man' (1959), 'The Party' (1968), and 'Doomsday Machine' (1972). He also had a significant television presence with his role on 'Wagon Train' and numerous guest appearances on popular series.
When was Denny Miller born and when did he die?
Denny Miller was born on April 25, 1934, in Bloomington, Indiana, and passed away on September 9, 2022, at the age of 88 in Monroe, Georgia.
What awards did Denny Miller win?
While Denny Miller did not receive major acting awards, he was honored with induction into the UCLA Athletic Hall of Fame for his basketball achievements and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to television.
What was Denny Miller's acting style?
Miller's acting style was naturalistic and straightforward, characterized by his commanding physical presence. He excelled in roles requiring athleticism and authority, bringing authenticity to characters that matched his tall, athletic build while maintaining an approachable screen persona.
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Films
1 film
