Hervé Villechaize was born on April 23, 1943, in Montauban, France, a city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. As a child, Villechaize struggled with his physical growth, as he stopped growing very early in life. His father, a skilled surgeon, sought medical attention from various doctors and hospitals, but unfortunately, there was no cure for Villechaize's condition. Despite this challenge, he continued to grow and develop his artistic talents.
Villechaize studied at the prestigious Beaux-Arts in Paris, where he honed his skills in painting and photography. At the age of 21, he decided to leave France and start a new life in the United States. He continued to pursue his passion for art, while also exploring the world of acting.
Villechaize's breakthrough in the entertainment industry came with his role in the 1974 film "The Man with the Golden Gun," where he played a memorable character. His success in the film led to more opportunities, including a role in the popular TV series "Fantasy Island." He played the iconic character of "Tattoo," the loyal servant of "Mr. Roarke" (played by Ricardo Montalban). The show was a huge success, and Villechaize's enigmatic and charming smile made him a household name.
However, Villechaize's personal life was marked by turmoil. In 1983, he had a public disagreement with the producers of "Fantasy Island" over his salary, which ultimately led to his termination from the show. He also lost his model-actress wife during this time. The series continued without him, but eventually, it ended due to declining ratings.
Villechaize's struggles with depression and addiction worsened, causing him to miss out on several acting opportunities. His health problems, including ulcers and a spastic colon, also took a toll on his well-being. In 1992, he nearly died of pneumonia.
On September 4th, 1993, Villechaize ended his life by shooting himself in his backyard. His common-law wife, Kathy Self, discovered his body and called the authorities. Villechaize was cremated, and his ashes were scattered off Point Fermin in Los Angeles.
