CNN —
Tony Todd, the celebrated actor best known for his chilling portrayal of the titular phantom killer in the original “Candyman” horror franchise, has sadly passed away at the age of 69, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in film and television.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed to CNN on Saturday by Todd’s talent agent, Dede Binder, from the Defining Artist agency, who expressed condolences on behalf of Todd’s family. No additional information regarding the circumstances of the actor’s death was immediately available.
Todd achieved widespread recognition for his iconic role as Daniel Robitaille, commonly known as the Candyman, a supernatural killer who terrifies victims when his name is uttered five times in front of a mirror — a role that became a cultural phenomenon in horror cinema.
First introduced in a 1985 short story written by Clive Barker, Todd brought the character to life in the original film series, commencing with the landmark 1992 movie, and he reprised his haunting portrayal in the highly anticipated 2021 reboot helmed by Nia DaCosta.
Todd’s career began to flourish with his notable role as Warren in Oliver Stone’s critically acclaimed film “Platoon,” which went on to win the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1987. Throughout his career, he also made significant contributions to cinema with appearances in Clint Eastwood’s 1988 biopic “Bird,” the 1989 classic “Lean on Me,” and Michael Bay’s action hit “The Rock” in 1996.
However, Todd truly cemented his status in the horror genre with memorable performances in the “Final Destination” series, where he portrayed the enigmatic character Bludworth, in addition to roles in cult classics like the 1990 remake of “Night of the Living Dead,” “The Crow” from 1994, and the intense slasher film “Hatchet” released in 2006.
Acknowledging his revered status as “Black horror royalty,” Todd reflected on this distinction in a 2020 interview with The New York Times, conveying comfort with the label, stating, “You can label me however you want. I know who I am.”
“I didn’t get my master’s saying, ‘I want to be a horror film star.’ I just wanted to be a good actor,” he emphasized, further adding, “Horror fans are the most ferocious fan base there is. That allows for a lot of personal appearances and celebrating a genre that’s sort of kicked to the side but also passionately adored.”
Todd’s remarkable versatility extended to television, where he appeared in significant multiepisode arcs across a range of popular series including MTV’s “Scream: The TV Series,” NBC’s dark comedy “Chuck,” the gripping thriller “24” on Fox, and the long-running CBS daytime soap opera “The Young and the Restless.”
He also ventured into the expansive “Star Trek” universe, portraying the character Kurn and multiple roles across various installments, while simultaneously building a prolific career in voice acting, lending his powerful voice to shows like CW’s “The Flash” and the animated series “Transformers Prime.”
A true thespian at heart, Todd was theater-trained and frequently returned to his roots on the stage amidst his busy screen and voice acting schedule, having earned a master’s degree from the prestigious Trinity Repertory Company and studying at the esteemed Eugene O’Neill Theater Center, showcasing his love for the performing arts.
The curb, but has wonderful stories to tell.”
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today. It’s a somber time in the world of cinema as we remember the late Tony Todd. His passing is a significant loss. What stands out to you the most about his contribution to film and horror?
**Guest:** Thank you for having me. Tony Todd was much more than just the iconic Candyman; he was a versatile and accomplished actor who brought depth to every role he played. His portrayal of Daniel Robitaille in “Candyman” transcended the horror genre. He became a symbol of strength and complexity in a character that could easily have been one-dimensional.
**Interviewer:** Absolutely. He had a way of infusing humanity into even the most terrifying characters. How do you think his legacy will continue to influence future generations of actors?
**Guest:** Tony Todd has left behind an indelible mark on horror cinema. His ability to connect with audiences and create empathy for characters like Candyman has paved the way for more nuanced storytelling in the genre. Future actors can learn from his work about the importance of depth and authenticity, even in horror.
**Interviewer:** Besides “Candyman,” Todd had a diverse career. What are some other roles you think people should revisit to appreciate his talent further?
**Guest:** Definitely. His role as Warren in “Platoon” showcased his dramatic range, and “The Rock” highlighted his versatility in action films. One lesser-known gem is his performance in “Night of the Living Dead.” It’s a horror classic, and Todd’s presence in that film is powerful. And of course, fans of the slasher genre should check out his work in “Hatchet.”
**Interviewer:** He was often referred to as “Black horror royalty.” How do you see this title reflecting his impact on the horror genre and representation in film?
**Guest:** That title is well-deserved. It signifies not just his personal achievements but also the representation of Black actors in a genre that has historically sidelined them. Tony embraced that label, using it to empower others and promote diversity in horror. His influence will inspire holistic representation for years to come.
**Interviewer:** In closing, what do you believe is the most important takeaway from Tony Todd’s life and career for fans and aspiring actors today?
**Guest:** The most important takeaway is to pursue authenticity in your craft. Tony was passionate about acting above all else. His commitment to his roles and his willingness to stand proudly in his identity as both an actor and a horror icon remind us all to embrace who we are and the stories we want to tell. His legacy will inspire many to do just that.
