Richard Kiel, James Bond's 'Jaws,' dead at 74

FRESNO, Calif., Sept. 11 (UPI) -- Richard Kiel, the actor behind iconic James Bond villain Jaws in two of the franchise's films, died Wednesday. He was 74.

Towering at 7 feet 2 inches tall, Kiel was known for playing bullies, villains and giants in his over 50-year career.

The character of Jaws first debuted in 1977's The Spy Who Loved Me, and returned in 1979 to foil Sir Roger Moore's Bond the series only science fiction turn, Moonkraker.

In addition to the bond films, Kiel also appeared on television shows I Spy and the Wild Wild West, and films Cannonball Run II, Tangled and Happy Gilmore

"I am totally distraught to learn of my dear friend Richard Kiel's passing," wrote Moore on Twitter. "We were on a radio programme together just a week ago. Distraught. Can't take it in"

Kiel broke his leg in the week prior to his death. It is unclear if that incident is connected to Kiel's cause of death, but the Detroit-born actor was still in the Fresno-area hospital treating that injury at the time he died.

I am totally distraught to learn of my dear friend Richard Kiel's passing. We were on a radio programme together just a week ago. Distraught

— Sir Roger Moore (@sirrogermoore) September 11, 2014

Can't take it in.

— Sir Roger Moore (@sirrogermoore) September 11, 2014