
William Vail
ArtAbout William Vail
Wlliam Vail (born November 30, 1950) is an American set decorator and actorbest known for his role as "Kirk" in the 1974 American horror classic The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. Vail was born in San Antonio, Texas. He began his film career in 1974, when he played the character of "Kirk" in the Texas Chainsaw Massacre. He then starred in three more films titled Poltergeist (1982), Mausoleum (1983), and Glitch! (1988). He then decided to switch as a Set Decorator in the film, A Cry for Help: The Tracey Thurman Story (1989). He continues to work as a Set Decorator, and has recently helped with the TV Movie, The Craigslist Killer (2011).
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of William Vail reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 8 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Horror
The majority of William Vail's filmography leans towards the Horror genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 50% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), William Vail remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best William Vail Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from William Vail's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of William Vail.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Rondo and Bob | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2013 | Texas Chainsaw 3D | Kirk (archive footage) | Average | Similar → |
| 2000 | Texas Chain Saw Massacre: The Shocking Truth | Himself | Hit | Similar → |
| 2000 | The American Nightmare | Self | Hit | Similar → |
| 1988 | Glitch! | Angry Valet | Flop | Similar → |
| 1983 | Mausoleum | The Final Demon (as Bill Vail) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1982 | Poltergeist | Implosion Man | Hit | Similar → |
| 1974 | The Texas Chain Saw Massacre | Kirk | Hit | Similar → |
William Vail - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of William Vail?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring William Vail is "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre" with a rating of 7.3/10.
How many movies has William Vail acted in?
William Vail has been featured in at least 8 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by William Vail?
Other notable films include "Poltergeist", "Texas Chain Saw Massacre: The Shocking Truth", and "The American Nightmare".




