Sad news for horror fans—Tony Todd, the towering talent who terrified audiences as the hook-handed Candyman, passed away on November 6 at his Los Angeles home. He was 69. Known for that bone-chilling voice and larger-than-life presence, Todd’s reps confirmed his death, though they kept the cause private.
Born in D.C. in 1954, Todd found his calling in acting early, sharpening his skills at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Institute and Trinity Rep. He first hit the big screen in “Platoon” as a heroin-addicted sergeant and quickly became a familiar face across hit 80s and 90s shows—think 21 Jump Street, MacGyver, NYPD Blue, The X-Files, and even multiple Star Trek series. And yes, that’s Todd as the relentless reporter on Homicide: Life on the Street and the recurring role of Gus Rogan on The Young and the Restless.
But horror sealed his legacy. Towering at 6’5″, he took on Ben in 1990’s Night of the Living Dead remake, and two years later, he became the Candyman—a legend built on vengeance and tragedy, his ghost haunting a Chicago housing project after a gruesome murder centuries before. He returned as the urban legend in the 2021 sequel, directed by Nia DaCosta, showing that his horror appeal had never faded.
Over the years, Todd kept fans hooked with roles in everything from Final Destination to The Crow (alongside the late Brandon Lee). He lent his deep, resonant voice to Star Trek, Call of Duty, Transformers, and even Scooby-Doo. He wasn’t just the guy who played the bad guy; he created backstories for every character, whether hero or villain, making them complex and unforgettable.
Even in recent years, Todd kept busy, with parts in Stream, Realm of Shadows, and a lead in The Bunker. IMDb shows a full slate of upcoming credits, a testament to his unstoppable work ethic. Those who met him say he had a warm laugh and kindness that stood in contrast to the dark characters he often played.
As horror fans mourn, Tony Todd leaves behind a legacy that few could rival—an actor who made audiences fear but somehow also cheer for the monsters he brought to life. Rest in peace, Mr. Todd.