A recent Smithsonian channel documentary discusses how the Beast character was inspired by real people with a rare genetic condition that also afflicts one of today’s rising actors.
Most people know the classic Disney film, Beauty and the Beast, and imagine the Beast to be a mythical character. However, a recent Smithsonian channel documentary discusses how the Beast character was inspired by a 16th century man with a rare genetic condition that also afflicts one of today’s rising actors.
Mexican-American actor Larry Gomez has hypertrichosis – also known as Ambras or Werewolf Syndrome – which covers his entire face and body with thick hair and has afflicted a total of 50 people since the Middle Ages. According to Guinness World Records, 19 people in the Ramos Gomez family – including Larry, his brother and cousins are listed as the hairiest family in the world.
Only two or three families have the mutated gene identified in 1995 as being responsible for hypertrichosis. While there’s currently no cure, recent testing found an additional set of genes on the male’s DNA that might aid future research.
After a ridiculed childhood working for the circus, Gomez switched to using his skills in juggling, acrobatics, and the trapeze to star in the Venice Beach Freakshow. There, he says, he found camaraderie and support.
Now comfortable with his appearance, Gomez stated, “I don’t see myself as different. It’s other people who make my life different.”
