Tony Todd, actor known for ‘Candyman’ and ‘Final Destination’, dies at 69
Tony Todd, actor known for ‘Candyman’ and ‘Final Destination’, dies at 69
The versatile character actor best known for his portrayal of the hook-wielding “Candyman” appeared in more than 100 films and television shows.
LOS ANGELES — Tony Todd, the commanding actor who became a horror icon with roles in “Candyman” and numerous others, died Wednesday at his home in California. He was 69.
His death was confirmed by multiple media outlets. No cause was immediately given.
Todd was perhaps best known for his portrayal of the titular character in 1992’s “Candyman” and its sequels. The film series, which spanned nearly three decades, featured Todd as a vengeful supernatural killer with a hook for a hand, who would be summoned when someone spoke his name five times into a mirror.
Beyond horror, Todd’s career spanned more than 100 film and television appearances. He made his film debut in Oliver Stone’s “Platoon” (1986) and went on to memorable roles in the 1990 remake of “Night of the Living Dead” and as William Bludworth in the “Final Destination” franchise. At the time of his death, he had been filming “Final Destination: Bloodlines” in Vancouver.
Todd was also a respected presence in science fiction television, appearing in multiple “Star Trek” series as different characters, including Worf’s brother Kurn in both “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and “Deep Space Nine.” His distinctive voice led to numerous voice acting roles, including Darkseid in the DC Animated Movie Universe.
Born December 4, 1954, in Washington, D.C., Todd grew up in Hartford, Connecticut. He studied theater at the University of Connecticut and continued his training at the Eugene O’Neill National Actors Theatre Institute and the Trinity Repertory Company in Providence, Rhode Island.
A dedicated stage actor, Todd performed both on and off Broadway, earning a Helen Hayes nomination for his role in Athol Fugard’s “The Captain’s Tiger.” His other notable stage works included August Wilson’s “King Hedley II” and “Aida” on Broadway.