Charles Aaron "Bubba" Smith died yesterday at the age of 66.

His size made him an intimidating figure at first glance. But his toothy grin was engaging and made him approachable.

Was a consensus All-American defensive lineman at Michigan St. After his pro career was cut short by a serious knee injury, Smith achieved stardom as a spokesperson (along with innumerable other ex-jocks and various celebs) in a decade-long series of TV commercials for Lite Beer. (Tastes great/Less filling. Which side were you on?)

Although his acting range was limited, Bubba had the good fortune of finding the perfect role in a very successful Hollywood franchise (Officer Moses Hightower in Police Academy).

Bubba's media exposure after the 1980s was significantly reduced after Lite Beer revamped their commericials (no more ex-jocks) and the Police Academy franchise faded.

R.I.P., Big Guy. We'll miss ya'.

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He was Shaq before Shaq as the giant who didn't take things seriously.