Actor Tony Todd, known for his haunting portrayal of a murderer in the horror film “Candyman” and his roles in numerous other films and television shows, has died, his longtime manager confirmed. He was 69 years old.
Todd died Wednesday at his home in the Los Angeles area, manager Jeffrey Goldberg said in a statement to The Associated Press.
“I have had the privilege of having Tony as a friend and customer for over 30 years and will miss this extraordinary man every day,” said Goldberg.
“Known around the world for his presence, both physical and artistic, Tony leaves an indelible legacy in the cinema, in the theater and in the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing him,” Goldberg’s management company said in making the announcement of his death.
“We say goodbye to Tony Todd, a giant of cinema and a beloved soul whose impact on our lives and the world of cinema will never be forgotten.”
Todd’s resume included roles in award-winning films such as the 1986 Oliver Stone-directed classic Platoon. He received praise for his starring role in the 1998 drama. “Drive. »
Todd was also known for his role in the 2000 horror film Final Destination and its 2003 sequel. Film company New Line Cinema mourned Todd on social media over the weekend:
“The industry has lost a legend,” the company said on Instagram. “We have lost a very dear friend. Rest in peace, Tony.
In Candyman, released in 1992 and remade in 2021, Todd played a menacing killer with a hook on one arm after thugs sawed off his hand, covered it in honey and sent bees to sting him . The premise is based on an urban myth that Candyman roamed the Cabrini-Green housing projects in Chicago and could be summoned by saying his name five times in front of a mirror. The 2021 film deals with social issues such as racism and police brutality.
In a 1992 interview with The Times, Todd said he built a device for his mouth so he could hold 200 live bees for filming. “I used the services of a hypnotist to put myself in a trance,” said the actor. In the same interview he said her grandmother credited for instilling in him a love of literature.
Following the success of writer-director Jordan Peele and his 2017 film Get Out, Todd spoke about the evolution of Black horror films and the ability of Black artists to direct films with a Black perspective. “Things change, roles change,” Todd told the Times in 2019. “Things are getting deeper and deeper. The more we write and create, the more real I think the project feels. Now the lens cap is removed and he can see everything.
Todd’s television career included roles on “Night Court,” “Matlock” and “Law & Order.”
“Off-screen, Tony was considered a mentor, friend and role model of kindness and wisdom,” Goldberg’s company said. “He dedicated his time and resources to emerging actors and always advocated for greater representation and authenticity within the industry.
“Those who knew him will remember his warm laugh, his generosity and his dedication to his craft,” the company said. “Whether on stage, screen or in person, Tony demonstrated an unwavering honesty that resonated with his friends, family and fans.”
Martin writes for the Associated Press.
