Tony Todd, the actor best known for playing the Candyman in Cliver Barker’s horror movies, has died at the age of 69. The actor’s death was confirmed by Deadline, although no cause of death has been released at this time.
Todd’s career spanned 40 years, and in total he had over 240 movie and TV credits to his name. Todd’s began his career in the 1980s when he appeared popular TV shows such as Simon & Simon and 21 Jump Street. However, his first big role – and one that would set his course in the film industry – was starring as Ben in the 1990 remake of Night of the Living Dead. Instantly imprinting his intense performance and commanding presence on audiences, Todd then went on to take on the role that would really define him for a generation of moviegoers: Daniel Robitaille, better known as Candyman.
The 1992 horror movie based on the short story by Hellraiser creator Clive Barker became an immediate part of pop culture thanks to its dark urban legend of the tragic but terrifying idea of the hook-handed boogeyman being conjured by saying his name five times in front of a mirror – a more involving version of the Beetlejuice incantation that doesn’t result in as much hilarity. The story resonated with audiences as it tackled serious subjects of race and class through its iconic titular character, and cemented Todd’s place as a new horror and cinematic icon.
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Todd’s prolific resume in film, television, and voice performances is one that many actors would love to lay claim to. Beyond Candyman, Todd starred in iconic films such as The Crow, Final Destination, and appeared as one of several horror ledends to appear in Wes Craven’s Wishmaster. He also made numerous appearances in popular TV shows, including The X-Files, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and 24. He also provided the voice of Venom in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 video game. Todd also made a return to the Candyman franchise in the 2021 Nia DaCosta directed sequel.
Tony Todd Had an Unmatched Presence
Todd’s acting career was greatly helped by his incredibly commanding voice and intimidating height, which he put to good use in many horror movies. Although he will probably best be remembered for his genre work, no matter what the production, whenever Todd appeared on-screen, he captivated audiences in a way that few actors can. As one of the great Black actors of his generation, Todd was deeply respected both in the industry and by his legions of fans who will mourn the loss of another Hollywood icon.
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Below are just a few of the first tributes to be shared, including Final Destination star Devon Sawa, and new horror icon, Lauren LaVera of the Terrifier franchise. RIP.
Candyman
- Release Date
- October 16, 1992
- Director
- Bernard Rose
- Runtime
- 100 Minutes
- Main Genre
- Horror
- Writers
- Bernard Rose
- Character(s)
- Helen Lyle , Candyman , Trevor Lyle , Bernadette Walsh , Anne-Marie McCoy , Jake , Clara , Billy