Tab Thacker, 45, has died after several years of declining health. The 6′5″, 450 pound NCAA Champion wrestler switched career paths to become an actor. He had roles in several films, including Police Academy.

Thacker won the NCAA State championship in 1984. He was named All American three times in college and earned four ACC titles while playing for the N.C. Wolfpack.

He was type cast as the ‘huge guy’ in several movies, including City Heat, Wildcats, Identity Crisis and two Police Academy 4 and 5 flicks.

After retiring from film making, Thacker became a bail bondsman in Raleigh, N.C.

We’ve included additional photos.

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