Tommy May was a key grip who worked in the entertainment industry for almost 50 years, in both films and television. He earned the nickname “Chainsaw” for his ability to wield the tool efficiently and skillfully in building a camera platform or removing something obstructing a shot.

May worked mostly on films, including Bite the Bullet, The Greatest Story Ever Told, Rooster Cogburn, Postcards From the Edge, Buddy Buddy and Tim Burton’s Batman Returns.

He also, however, worked extensively on television series, including Bearcats!, Hunter, Cybill and 25 episodes of Get Smart. In addition, he worked on the miniseries George Washington, about the first American president’s early life and career.

May died on February 23, 2015, in Granada Hills, California. He was 81.