
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).
William Vail Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of William Vail reflects a career marked by diverse experimentation. Across 8 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of William Vail's work falls within the Horror genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 50% of William Vail's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, which stands out as a key performance.
Best William Vail Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from William Vail's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie William Vail has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| 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 | Self | 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".




