Dierkes was briefly considered for the title role in "The Thing From Another World" in1951 primarily because of his height (6'6"). James Arness, at 6'7" was chosen instead, as he was more broad shouldered than the gaunt Dierkes and had more film experience. Ironically, Dierkes was given the role of Dr. Chapman, who had more screen time and dialog than Arness, who later regretted taking the title role.