S. William Hinzman
Actor
About S. William Hinzman
Samuel William Hinzman, known professionally as S. William Hinzman or Bill Hinzman, was an American actor and director who became immortalized in horror cinema history through his groundbreaking role as the first zombie in George A. Romero's 'Night of the Living Dead' (1968). His portrayal of the cemetery zombie, with its distinctive shambling gait and blank expression, established the visual template for cinematic zombies that would influence the genre for decades. After his iconic debut, Hinzman continued working in the horror film industry, both as an actor in various low-budget productions and as a director, helming films like 'The Majorettes' (1987) and 'Flesheater' (1988). He became a beloved figure at horror conventions and film festivals, where fans celebrated his contribution to zombie mythology. Hinzman's career spanned over four decades, during which he appeared in numerous Romero-related projects and other horror films, cementing his status as a cult horror icon. His work extended beyond acting into producing and directing, always maintaining his connection to the Pittsburgh film scene where his career began.
The Craft
On Screen
Hinzman's acting style was characterized by physical transformation and minimalist expression. His zombie performance relied heavily on body language, creating a distinctive shambling walk and vacant stare that became the blueprint for cinematic zombies. He emphasized the physical aspects of horror performance, using subtle movements to create unsettling effects rather than relying on dialogue or exaggerated expressions.
Milestones
- First zombie in 'Night of the Living Dead' (1968)
- Director of 'The Majorettes' (1987)
- Director and star of 'Flesheater' (1988)
- Cameo in 'Night of the Living Dead 30th Anniversary Edition' (1998)
- Regular appearances at horror conventions worldwide
- Worked on multiple George A. Romero productions
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Fangoria Chainsaw Award for Lifetime Achievement (posthumous, 2012)
Nominated
- Saturn Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor (1979)
Special Recognition
- Horror Hall of Fame inductee
- Pennsylvania Horror Film Festival Lifetime Achievement Award
- Zombie Con Legend Award
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
S. William Hinzman's portrayal of the first zombie in 'Night of the Living Dead' fundamentally changed horror cinema and popular culture. His performance established the visual and behavioral characteristics of the modern movie zombie - the shambling gait, the blank stare, the insatiable hunger for human flesh. This template has been referenced, parodied, and emulated in countless films, TV shows, video games, and other media. His zombie became an iconic image that transcended the film itself, appearing on posters, merchandise, and in Halloween celebrations worldwide. The character influenced how generations of audiences would imagine the undead, and his work contributed to Pittsburgh's reputation as a center for independent horror filmmaking.
Lasting Legacy
Hinzman's legacy is permanently etched in horror cinema history as the actor who created the first modern movie zombie. His performance in 'Night of the Living Dead' not only launched his career but also helped establish a new subgenre of horror that continues to thrive. He became a beloved figure at horror conventions, where fans celebrated his contribution to zombie mythology. His later work as a director helped maintain the Pittsburgh independent horror tradition, and he mentored many young filmmakers in the genre. Even decades after his death, his zombie character remains one of the most recognizable and influential figures in horror history.
Who They Inspired
Hinzman influenced countless horror actors and filmmakers through his pioneering zombie performance. His physical approach to creating the undead character inspired generations of special effects artists and performers. Directors like Sam Raimi, Peter Jackson, and Edgar Wright have acknowledged the influence of Romero's zombies - and by extension Hinzman's performance - on their work. His success as an independent filmmaker also inspired others to pursue low-budget horror production outside the Hollywood system. The zombie archetype he helped create continues to evolve in modern media, but his original performance remains the foundational reference point.
Off Screen
Hinzman was married and had children, maintaining a relatively private personal life despite his cult fame. He served in the United States Army before pursuing his film career. He remained connected to his Pennsylvania roots throughout his life and career, often working on local productions. He was known as a kind and generous person who enjoyed interacting with fans at conventions and film screenings.
Education
Graduated from Coraopolis High School, served in U.S. Army, largely self-taught in filmmaking through practical experience
Family
- Patricia Hinzman (1960s-2012)
Did You Know?
- Originally hired as a production assistant on 'Night of the Living Dead' before being cast as the zombie
- His zombie costume cost approximately $30
- The iconic graveyard scene was filmed on a freezing November day in Pennsylvania
- He continued to make convention appearances until shortly before his death
- His zombie character is often referred to as 'Graveyard Zombie' or 'Cemetery Zombie'
- He owned a restaurant in Pennsylvania for several years while pursuing acting
- Appeared in the documentary 'American Zombie' discussing his iconic role
- His zombie character was featured on a U.S. postage stamp in 2019 as part of the 'Classic Monsters' series
- Was a competitive swimmer in his youth
- Served in the Army's Special Forces before his acting career
In Their Own Words
When I put on that makeup and started shuffling around, I had no idea I was creating something that would last 50 years
Being the first zombie is like being the first vampire - you set the standard
George Romero gave me the opportunity of a lifetime, and I've been grateful ever since
Horror fans are the most loyal, wonderful people in the world
I never get tired of talking about 'Night of the Living Dead' - it changed my life
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was S. William Hinzman?
S. William Hinzman was an American actor and director best known for playing the first zombie in George A. Romero's classic 1968 film 'Night of the Living Dead'. His performance established the visual template for cinematic zombies and made him a beloved figure in horror cinema history.
What films is S. William Hinzman best known for?
He is most famous for 'Night of the Living Dead' (1968), where he played the cemetery zombie. He also directed and starred in 'Flesheater' (1988) and directed 'The Majorettes' (1987), appearing in numerous other horror films throughout his career.
When was S. William Hinzman born and when did he die?
S. William Hinzman was born on October 24, 1936, in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, and passed away on February 5, 2012, from cancer at the age of 75.
What awards did S. William Hinzman win?
While not receiving mainstream awards, Hinzman was honored with a Fangoria Chainsaw Award for Lifetime Achievement posthumously in 2012, and was inducted into the Horror Hall of Fame for his contributions to zombie cinema.
What was S. William Hinzman's acting style?
Hinzman's acting style emphasized physical transformation and minimal expression, particularly in his zombie role. He created a distinctive shambling walk and vacant stare through body language rather than dialogue, establishing the blueprint for cinematic zombie performances.
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Films
1 film
