Earl Bassett is a fictional character from the 1990 film Tremors, portrayed by actor Fred Ward. He is a handyman living in the small desert town of Perfection, Nevada, who becomes involved in a battle against giant underground creatures known as Graboids. Earl is characterized by his resourcefulness and determination, often using his practical skills to devise plans to combat the threats posed by these monsters. In the film, Earl teams up with his friend Valentine McKee, played by Kevin Bacon, as they navigate the challenges of survival in their remote environment. Together, they showcase themes of friendship and bravery while facing the unexpected dangers that arise from the Graboids. Earl's character has become iconic in the horror-comedy genre, contributing to the film's cult status.