1. Herbert Coward, Actor Who Played Toothless Man in ‘Deliverance,’ Dies at
2. Herbert Coward, Actor Who Played Toothless Man in ‘Deliverance,’ Passes Away at 85.
Herbert Coward, Actor Known for Role in “Deliverance,” Dies in Tragic Accident
Background and Career
Herbert Coward, affectionately known as Cowboy, was an actor best known for his role as the Toothless Man in the 1972 thriller “Deliverance.” Born on August 21, 1938, in Haywood County, North Carolina, Coward’s career in the entertainment industry was modest but memorable.
After growing up in Haywood County, Coward worked various jobs across the country, including performing at a Wild West-themed park in Maggie Valley, N.C. During his time at the park, he had the opportunity to briefly work with legendary actor Burt Reynolds, who would later recommend Coward for the role that would define his career.
His performance as the Toothless Man in “Deliverance” earned Coward recognition and appreciation from audiences worldwide. The film, based on a novel by James Dickey, tells the story of four Atlanta businessmen embarking on a perilous canoe trip in rural Georgia. Coward’s character delivers the memorable line, “He got a real purty mouth, ain’t he?”
Tragic Accident
In a shocking turn of events, Herbert Coward, 85, and his passenger, Bertha Brooks, 78, tragically lost their lives in a motor vehicle accident on Thursday. The incident took place on U.S. Highway 23 in Haywood County, North Carolina, where their vehicle was struck by a truck. Sadly, a Chihuahua and Coward’s beloved pet squirrel also perished in the accident.
The driver of the truck, a 16-year-old, sustained minor injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment. The cause of the crash remains unclear, and no charges have been filed at this time, according to Sergeant Marcus Bethea of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
A Memorable Career
While “Deliverance” remains his most iconic role, Coward continued to pursue acting after the film’s release. He appeared in the 2007 film “Ghost Town: The Movie” and made a guest appearance on the TV series “Hillbilly Blood” in 2013.
Despite the limited opportunities that came his way, Coward’s passion for acting remained unwavering. In a television interview in 2022 celebrating the 50th anniversary of “Deliverance,” Coward revealed that he was illiterate and learned his lines for the film by listening to a script on a tape recorder. He humorously remarked, “I write my name, and that’s it.”
A Lasting Legacy
Herbert Coward’s portrayal of the Toothless Man in “Deliverance” left an indelible mark on cinema history. His line became one of the most memorable movie quotes of the 1970s and the defining moment of his career.
Although his acting career may have been modest, Coward’s contribution to the industry will not be forgotten. His talent and dedication to his craft touched the hearts of many, and he will be dearly missed.
Details regarding survivors are not immediately available at this time.
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– Herbert Coward, Actor Who Played Toothless Man in ‘Deliverance,’ Dies at
– Herbert Coward, Actor Who Played Toothless Man in ‘Deliverance,’ Passes Away at 85.
