‘Candyman’ and ‘Final Destination’ actor Tony Todd dies at 69
Actor Tony Todd, known for his haunting portrayal of a killer in the horror film “Candyman” 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, manager Jeffrey Goldberg said in a statement to the Associated Press.
“I 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,” Goldberg said.
Though he strikes an imposing figure at 6-feet-5, Tony Todd admits he has a fear of bees and “anything that crawls.”
“Known 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.
“We 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.”
Todd’s film resume included roles in award-winning movies such as the Oliver Stone-directed classic “Platoon,” released in 1986. He earned praise for his lead role in the 1998 drama “Driven.”
Todd was also known for his role in the 2000 horror film “Final Destination” and its sequel in 2003. The film company New Line Cinema mourned Todd’s death on social media over the weekend:
“The industry has lost a legend,” the company said on Instagram. “We have lost a cherished friend. Rest in peace, Tony.”
Rashida Jones commemorated her late father, music producer and composer Quincy Jones, by saying that his legacy is making everyone he ever met ‘feel loved and seen.’
In “Candyman,” released in 1992 and followed by a remake in 2021, Todd played a menacing killer who had a hook on one arm after hoodlums had sawed off his hand, covered him in honey and set loose bees to sting him to death. 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 movie explores societal problems such as racism and police brutality.
In an 1992 interview with The Times, Todd said he had a device constructed for his mouth so it could hold 200 live bees for the shoot. “I elicited the services of a hypnotist to help get into a trance state,” the actor said. In the same interview, he credited his grandmother 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 movies and the ability of Black artists to make movies with a Black perspective. “Things are changing, roles are changing,” Todd told The Times in 2019. “Things are getting deeper. The more things that we write and create, the more the project, I think, feels real. The lens cap is off now and it sees everything.”
Todd’s television career included roles in “Night Court,” “Matlock” and “Law & Order.”
“Off-screen, Tony was cherished as a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of kindness and wisdom,” Goldberg’s company said. “He gave his time and resources to aspiring actors, consistently advocating for greater representation and authenticity within the industry.
“Those who knew him will remember his warm laugh, generous spirit, and his dedication to his craft,” the company said. “Whether on stage, on screen, or in personal conversations, Tony brought an unyielding honesty that resonated deeply with his friends, family, and fans.”
Martin writes for the Associated Press.
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