We've all got people in mind that would intimidate us. Whether it's their position in a given industry or their physical stature, it's easy to envision somebody who looms large. But, how many times have you been proved wrong about those initial fears? We might have one picture of a person, only to have their personality completely upend those notions. Gentle giants are always surprising, whether they're giants of body or not. It's nice to know that an initial menace isn't always as it appears.

Here's a great example, and one we can all relate to, whether we're showbiz veterans or not!

Imagine clocking in for your first day on a new job, and your coworkers have decades more experience than you. Now, imagine that experience was all very public and heralded and included Young Frankenstein and Taxi Driver. Poor Ray Romano. He's got his own sitcom, and before it even begins, he's stood in the shadow of Peter Boyle and his enormous talent.

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In a 2011 interview with NPR, Romano spoke about his co-star and how the more-seasoned performer alleviated the title star's fear.

"I remember when we were rehearsing the pilot episode and [I was thinking] this is a show built around me and there's Peter Boyle— and I hadn't really talked to him that much [because] his reputation just scared me— he was this hulking strong presence," said Romano.

"And during Day 1 of rehearsal, in between one of the scenes our paths crossed backstage and he just stopped me ... and he goes 'It's just like water, just let it flow.' ... At the time, I was just blown away by this kind gesture that he would make me feel comfortable." 

In time, Romano and Boyle became close friends. The two would frequently socialize off-set, sharing dinners and spending time enjoying each other's company. Their natural chemistry and easy rapport are clear to anyone who has ever tuned in to Everybody Loves Raymond.