Horror Community Mourns ‘Candyman’ Star Tony Todd’s Passing

Tony Todd, the commanding actor whose supernatural portrayal of the hook-wielding Candyman cemented his status as a horror genre icon, died Wednesday at his Los Angeles area home at the age of 69, his representatives confirmed.

The veteran actor’s death was announced by his longtime manager Jeffrey Goldberg, “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,” he said in a statement.

Todd’s towering presence and resonant voice made him an imposing figure throughout his four-decade career in Hollywood, which included memorable roles in Oliver Stone’s Academy Award-winning Platoon (1986) and the successful Final Destination franchise.

Popular YouTube horror content creator James A. Janisse of Dead Meat reflected on Todd’s captivating presence: “Tony Todd was a titan of the horror community, and I’m not talking about his height. His commanding screen presence made you stop and listen, whether it was Candyman or just a cameo. In real life, he was as warm as his booming voice. He gave the best hugs. I’ll miss him so much.”

It was his mesmerizing performance as the vengeful spirit in the 1992 horror classic Candyman that would ultimately define his legacy in American cinema.

The groundbreaking film, which expertly explored themes of urban legends and racial injustice through the story of a serial killer haunting Chicago’s Cabrini-Green housing projects, gained renewed cultural significance with its Jordan Peele-produced 2021 remake.

Actor O’Shea Jackson Jr. paid tribute by invoking the famous mirror ritual from the film: “An absolute legend. Rest in peace brotha. Tony Todd. Tony Todd. Tony Todd. Tony Todd…”

The horror community immediately expressed an outpouring of grief across social media platforms following news of his passing. “My heart is broken. We have lost our horror legend,” shared horror movie reviewer Ivotres Littles on X. “His kindness and love for acting runs deep. I will still hear his iconic voice.”

New Line Cinema, the studio behind several of Todd’s most successful films, stated on Instagram: “The industry has lost a legend. We have lost a cherished friend.”

Social media page Carnival of Horror shared several photos of the actor with the message: “I’m completely gutted. RIP, Tony Todd. You’ll always be remembered for your movie and TV roles and the kindness and joy you have shown to your fans.”

Throughout his distinguished career, Todd demonstrated remarkable range as an actor, earning praise for his ability to bring depth and humanity to every role. Horror critic Meagan Navarro highlighted this versatility in her tribute: “Filling Duane Jones’ shoes as Ben for the NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD remake should’ve been an impossible task. Yet Tony Todd did just that, and so easily. His take on Ben has all the warmth, empathy, and commanding gravitas.”

Beyond his contributions to horror cinema, Todd built an impressive television career spanning several decades, with memorable appearances on popular series including Night Court, Matlock, and Law & Order.

Emmy-nominated writer and FX’s Pose producer Steven Canals remembered working with Todd during his early days in television: “Tony Todd starred in my 1st TV writing job as staff writer (Freeform’s Dead of Summer). What a kind human. What a talent. May he rest in power & peace.”

Behind the scenes, Todd was known as a passionate advocate for emerging talent in Hollywood. His management company noted his dedication to mentoring aspiring actors and championing greater representation within the industry.

“Whether on stage, on screen, or in personal conversations, Tony brought an unyielding honesty that resonated deeply with his friends, family, and fans,” the company stated in their announcement.

This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.