Actor Tony Todd, known for his haunting portrayal of a killer in the horror film 鈥淐andyman鈥� and roles in many other films and television shows, has died, his longtime manager confirmed. He was 69.
Todd died Wednesday at his home in the Los Angeles area, his manager Jeffrey Goldberg said in a statement to The Associated Press.
鈥淚 had the privilege to have Tony as my friend and client for over 30 years and I will miss that amazing man every single day,鈥� Goldberg said.
鈥淜nown worldwide for his towering presence, both physically and artistically, Tony leaves behind an indelible legacy in film, theater, and the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing him," Goldberg's management company said in announcing the death.
鈥淲e bid farewell to Tony Todd, a giant of cinema and a beloved soul whose impact on our lives and the world of film will never be forgotten,鈥� it said.
Todd's film resume included roles in award-winning movies such as the Oliver Stone-directed classic 鈥淧latoon,鈥� released in 1986.
Todd was also known for his role in the 2000 horror film 鈥淔inal Destination鈥� and its sequel in 2003. The film company New Line Cinema mourned Todd's death on social media over the weekend:
鈥淭he industry has lost a legend," the company said on Instagram. 鈥淲e have lost a cherished friend. Rest in peace, Tony.鈥�
In 鈥淐andyman,鈥� released in 1992 and followed by , Todd played a menacing killer who had a hook on one arm. The premise is built around 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 sequel explores societal problems such as racism and police brutality.
Todd's television career included roles in 鈥淣ight Court,鈥� 鈥淢atlock鈥� and 鈥淟aw & Order.鈥�
鈥淥ff-screen, Tony was cherished as a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of kindness and wisdom,鈥� Goldberg's company said. 鈥淗e gave his time and resources to aspiring actors, consistently advocating for greater representation and authenticity within the industry.鈥�
鈥淭hose who knew him will remember his warm laugh, generous spirit, and his dedication to his craft,鈥� the company said. 鈥淲hether on stage, on screen, or in personal conversations, Tony brought an unyielding honesty that resonated deeply with his friends, family, and fans.鈥�
Jeff Martin, The Associated Press
