William Vail - Actor Profile

William Vail

Art
Freshness: Jan 27, 2026
8Total Films
7.3 Highest Rated
Born: Nov 30, 1950
Birth Place: San Antonio, Texas, USA

About 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.

YearMovieCharacterSuccessMore
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".