The Truth Behind These Faceless TV Characters

Tim Taylor's trusty next-door neighbor Wilson W. Wilson (played by Earl Hindman) was almost always in his backyard, just waiting for the Toolman to turn to him with the latest familial dilemma, and he had a rich history of worldly experiences and knowledge to pluck from for any given subject. Throughout the duration of Home Improvement, the bottom half of Wilson's face was always concealed, even when he did occasionally venture away from the protective fencing that usually separated him from the Taylor team.

The character was reportedly inspired by a real-life "hidy-ho neighbor" Tim Allen had growing up, when he was too short to see over the fence and catch a glimpse at his full face. Trick shots throughout the show mostly kept his mug under wraps, but there were occasional slips that showed more of his moneymaker than usual, and Wilson debuted his full face in the show's finale episode.