Tor Johnson was born in Sweden on October 19, 1903, to parents Karl and Lovisa. He was a large man, at one point weighing 400 pounds, which would later become a defining characteristic of his on-screen persona. Johnson began his career as a professional wrestler before transitioning into acting.
Johnson made his acting debut in 1934, appearing in the films Registered Nurse and Kid Millions. His imposing size and distinctive look made him a natural fit for villainous roles in B movies. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that Johnson gained widespread recognition for his work with director Ed Wood.
Johnson's collaborations with Ed Wood are now considered cult classics, with Bride of the Monster and Plan 9 from Outer Space being among the most well-known. His role as Lobo in Bride of the Monster and Inspector Daniel Clay in Plan 9 from Outer Space solidified his place in the annals of B movie history.
In the 1994 biopic Ed Wood, directed by Tim Burton, Johnson was portrayed by fellow wrestler George Steele. The film brought renewed interest in Johnson's work and solidified his status as a cult movie icon.
Despite his limited mainstream success, Tor Johnson's contributions to the world of B movies have endured. His unique presence and larger-than-life personality left an indelible mark on the genre, influencing filmmakers and performers for decades to come.
Little is known about Tor Johnson's personal life outside of his career in entertainment. He was married and had children, but details about his family remain private. Johnson passed away on May 12, 1971, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate and inspire fans of cult cinema.