The film industry and fans alike are mourning the passing of Tony Todd, an actor with a presence as memorable as his filmography. Todd, renowned for his role in the horror series "Candyman" and as the enigmatic mortician in the "Final Destination" films, died at age 69. According to NBC News, Dede Binder, president of Defining Artists, confirmed the actor's death on Friday evening.
Leaving an indelible mark in the horror genre, Todd's career spanned well over three decades, boasting more than 240 credits. His death at his Marina del Rey home has cast a somber tone over the industry. As noted by ABC7, the cause of Todd's death was not released, adding a layer of solemn mystery to the loss of such a familiar face in film and television.
Tributes have poured in from all corners of the entertainment world. Virginia Madsen, Todd's co-star in "Candyman," shared her grief on Instagram: "The great actor Tony Todd has left us and now is an angel. As he was in life. More later but I can't right now. I love you." The continued relevance of his most iconic role, last reprised in the 2021 sequel, speaks volumes about Todd's enduring impact. Jeffrey Goldberg, Todd's representative, expressed his feelings of loss in a statement obtained by CBS News, "I am lucky to have been able to work with this amazing man and I will miss him every single day."
Todd is survived by his wife, Fatima, and two children. His legacy is one that will continue to resonate with audiences who were thrilled, chilled, and moved by his performances across a remarkable breadth of roles.