In 1980 he turned his focus to television and film and had his first speaking role in the comedy Under the Rainbow in 1981, which also featured Star Trek performers Jim Boeke, Beth Nufer, and Felix Silla. For this role he had to shave his head, a precursor of things to come. His early work includes roles in the horror sequel Halloween II (1981, with stuntwoman Donna Garrett) and an episode of ABC's Afterschool Specials (1983, with Robert DoQui).