Milton Reid (4 September 1924 – 23 March 2018) was a Jamaican‑born British actor, bodybuilder, and former police officer. He is best known for his physically imposing roles as a henchman or strongman in film and television during the 1970s and 1980s.
Early life and background
- Born in Kingston, Jamaica.
- Relocated to the United Kingdom in the late 1940s.
- Served as a police officer with the Metropolitan Police before pursuing a career in acting and bodybuilding.
Bodybuilding career
- Gained recognition for his muscular physique, which contributed to his casting in physically demanding roles.
- Won several regional bodybuilding competitions in the United Kingdom during the 1950s.
Acting career
- Debuted in film with minor roles in the early 1960s.
- Frequently cast as antagonistic or supporting characters that required a large, imposing presence.
- Notable film appearances include:
- A Clockwork Orange (1971) – as a prison inmate.
- The Princess Bride (1987) – as Fezzik’s opponent in the “Cliffs of Insanity” fight scene (uncredited).
- The Man Who Would Be King (1975) – as a guard.
- Television credits encompass appearances on series such as Doctor Who (1975 episode “The Ark in Space”) and The Avengers.
Personal life
- Married with children; lived in Surrey, England, for much of his later life.
- Remained active in the bodybuilding community, attending events and mentoring younger athletes.
Death
- Died on 23 March 2018 in Surrey at the age of 93. Obituaries noted his contributions to genre cinema and his distinctive physical presence on screen.
