Michael Clarke Duncan, the tall and hulking actor from "The Green Mile," "Armageddon," and "Talladega Nights" died yesterday at the age of 54. We always had a soft spot for the gentle giant, who was a ditch digger and security guard before making it big in Hollywood. He could do the tough guy role but could also really act, and he'll be missed.

Here are three great moments from his career that came to mind today:

1. "I'm Tired" Speech

This, the Oscar-nominated performance from "The Green Mile," is what he'll always be remembered for. Duncan had never really acted before—he got into the business with a steady stream of bodyguard and big guy roles—and he got his big break with this role as a death row inmate. He played it incredibly well.

2. The Scorpion King

Of course, he could also play the stone-cold badass. He had to have been one of the biggest dudes to act over the last decade, and he made for a menancing character in "The Scorpion King." Something tells me that if Duncan and the Rock fought in real life, the former wrestler wouldn't stand a chance.

3. Talledega Nights

We need to also include some levity. Duncan was hilarious playing alongside Ricky Bobby, especially in the scene post-crash at the hospital. "Let's use this knife to pry it out!"