Actor Tony Todd, recognized for his disturbing portrayal of a killer within the horror movie “Candyman” and roles in lots of different movies and tv reveals, has died, his longtime supervisor confirmed. He was 69 years previous.
Todd died Wednesday at his Los Angeles-area dwelling, supervisor Jeffrey Goldberg mentioned in a press release to The Associated Press.
“I’ve been privileged to have Tony as my pal and consumer for over 30 years and I’ll miss that extraordinary man each single day,” Goldberg mentioned.
“Known all through the world for his commanding presence, each bodily and creative, Tony leaves an indelible legacy in movie, theater and within the hearts of those that had the honour of realizing him,” the administration firm mentioned of Goldberg saying dying.
“We bid farewell to Tony Todd, a large of cinema and a beloved soul whose influence on our lives and the world of cinema won’t ever be forgotten.” .
Todd’s movie resume consists of roles in award-winning movies such because the Oliver Stone-directed traditional “Platoon,” launched in 1986. He earned reward for his starring function within the 1998 drama “Driven.”
Todd was additionally recognized for his function within the 2000 horror movie “Final Destination” and its sequel in 2003. Film firm New Line Cinema mourned Todd’s dying on social media over the weekend:
“The trade has misplaced a legend,” the corporate mentioned on Instagram. “We have misplaced a pricey pal. Rest in peace, Tony.”
In “Candyman,” launched in 1992 and adopted by a remake in 2021, Todd performed a menacing murderer who had a hook on one arm after thugs sawed off his hand, coated him in honey and launched bees to sting him to dying. The premise is constructed round an city fantasy that Candyman roamed the Cabrini-Green residential neighborhoods in Chicago and might be summoned by saying his title 5 instances in a mirror. The 2021 movie explores social points corresponding to racism and police brutality.
In a 1992 interview with The Times, Todd mentioned he constructed a tool for his mouth so it may maintain 200 stay bees for filming. “I turned to the providers of a hypnotist to assist me enter a trance state,” the actor mentioned. In the identical interview, he credited his grandmother with instilling in him a love of literature.
Following the success of writer-director Jordan Peele and his movie “Get Out,” Todd spoke concerning the evolution of black horror movies and the power of black artists to make movies with a black perspective. “Things are altering, roles are altering,” Todd informed the Times in 2019. “Things are getting deeper. The extra issues we write and create, the extra actual the challenge, I believe, feels. Now the lens cap is off and you may see every little thing.”
Todd’s tv profession consists of roles on “Night Court,” “Matlock” and “Law & Order.”
“Off-screen, Tony was thought of a mentor, a pal and a beacon of kindness and knowledge,” Goldberg’s firm mentioned. “He has devoted his time and sources to aspiring actors, constantly advocating for higher illustration and authenticity inside the trade.”
“Those who knew him will keep in mind his heat snicker, his beneficiant spirit and his dedication to his craft,” the corporate mentioned. “Whether on stage, on display or in private conversations, Tony introduced an unwavering honesty that resonated deeply together with his mates, household and followers.”
Martin writes for the Associated Press.
