Michael Berryman, the American actor renowned for his distinctive physical features, has carved out a unique niche in the world of cinema, particularly within the horror genre. Born in Los Angeles, Berryman entered the world with hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, a rare genetic condition that impacts the development of hair, skin, nails, teeth, and sweat glands. Before stepping into the spotlight, he worked as a florist, but his journey into acting began in 1975 with a minor role in the adventure film Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze. That same year, he also appeared briefly in the critically acclaimed drama One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, which went on to win several Academy Awards.
Berryman’s breakthrough came in 1977 when he starred in Wes Craven’s horror classic The Hills Have Eyes, portraying one of the terrifying members of a savage, cannibalistic family living deep in the desert. His performance was memorable enough that he returned to the role for the 1985 sequel, The Hills Have Eyes Part II. Over the years, Berryman has become a familiar face in horror and thriller films, often cast as eerie or monstrous characters. His filmography includes roles in the 1985 cult favorite Weird Science, the 1990 horror flick Evil Spirits, and Rob Zombie’s 2005 gritty horror film The Devil’s Rejects.
In addition to his work on the big screen, Michael Berryman has made a number of appearances on television, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Some of his notable TV roles include segments of the horror anthology Tales from the Crypt in 1991, a guest spot on the popular sci-fi series The X-Files in 1995, and a role in the action-packed television movie Conan in 1998. Throughout his career, Berryman has proven that his talent extends far beyond his unique look, earning respect and recognition in the entertainment industry.
When it comes to Michael Berryman’s filmography, fans and critics alike often point to The Evil Within (2017) as his standout performance—yes, that’s right, Michael Berryman truly shines in this one, making it his highest rated movie by a noticeable margin. Over the years, audiences have responded well to his intense presence and unique portrayal in the film, solidifying its place as a modern favorite in his career. On the flip side, though, not every project has landed with the same impact. In fact, if we look at the lower end of the spectrum, The Hills Have Eyes Part II (1985) tends to come up as Michael Berryman’s lowest rated film. While it still has its cult following—and let’s be honest, Michael Berryman always brings something memorable to the screen—it just didn’t resonate as strongly with viewers or critics. So overall, from high points like The Evil Within to the more divisive entries like the 1985 sequel, Michael Berryman’s journey through horror cinema remains both fascinating and varied.