Don Megowan

Don Megowan (May 24, 1922 – June 26, 1981) was a notable American actor recognized for his roles in various films and television series. He is perhaps best known for portraying the Gill-man on land in "The Creature Walks Among Us," which is the concluding installment of the Creature from the Black Lagoon trilogy.

Born in Inglewood, California, to Robert and Leila (née Dale) Megowan, Don grew up in a family with ties to the film industry; his mother worked as a negative cutter for Pathé. Standing at an impressive 6'7", he was athletic, engaging in sports such as baseball and football, and excelling in discus throwing. His talents earned him a football scholarship at the University of Southern California, but he later served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Megowan's filmography includes roles in science fiction classics such as "The Werewolf," where he played Sheriff Jack Haines, and "The Creation of the Humanoids," in which he portrayed a captain in an anti-robot faction. Aside from science fiction, he appeared in numerous westerns, including "Davy Crockett, King of the Wild Frontier" and "Blazing Saddles."

In addition to his film work, Megowan starred alongside Cameron Mitchell in the 1962 television series "The Beachcomber," and made guest appearances on many popular shows of the era. A lifelong smoker, he ultimately succumbed to throat cancer at the age of 59, having experienced significant weight loss during his illness.