Tony Todd, an actor whose deep, commanding voice and towering presence have featured in hundreds of films, stage productions, and television series, has gone to the great horror film in the sky.

Early Life

Anthony Tiran Todd was born on December 4, 1954, in Washington, D.C. and was raised in Hartford, Connecticut, where he discovered his passion for the arts. He pursued formal training, studying theater at the University of Connecticut and then at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center and the Trinity Square Repertory Theatre Conservatory in Providence, Rhode Island.

Career

Like most actors, Tony Todd’s career began on the stage before he moved to the big screen, making his first appearance in a supporting role in Sleepwalk (1986), followed by Platoon (1986). He spent most of the 80s bouncing between the big and small screens, primarily in supporting roles. In 1990, he received his first lead role as Ben in Tom Savini’s Night of the Living Dead (1990).

Just a few years later, he took on the role he would become most remembered for: the Candyman in Candyman (1992). The film, directed by Bernard Rose and based on Clive Barker’s short story, features Todd as a vengeful spirit summoned by repeating his name. During filming, he negotiated a bonus of $1,000 for every bee sting he endured. He was stung 23 times.

Following Candyman, Todd’s career thrived with appearances in numerous high-profile films. He played Captain Darrow in The Rock (1996) and had memorable roles in The Crow (1994) and the Final Destination series, where he portrayed the mortician, Mr. Bludworth, offering ominous warnings to those trying to cheat death.

For the Trekkie, I would like to highlight his work across the Star Trek universe, where he portrayed multiple characters in Star Trek: The Next Generation, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, and Star Trek: Voyager, including his recurring role as Kurn, the brother of Worf.

Beyond his iconic horror roles, Todd continued to perform in stage productions both on and off Broadway. His distinctive voice became one of his most valuable assets, leading to various voice-acting roles in video games, animated series, films, and movie trailers.

Legacy

Tony Todd’s work in the entertainment industry spans nearly four decades, and his contributions to film, particularly in horror and science fiction, have earned him a loyal fanbase. Todd was known to be one of the few Hollywood celebrities who often takes time to chat with fans, answer their questions or pose for photos with them, when he’s recognized.

Tony Todd passed away on November 6, 2024, at the age of 69. He leaves behind two children and plenty of amazing performances for the rest of us to enjoy.