James Handy, a longtime Hollywood actor, has tragically passed away at the age of 81. Throughout his career, his credits include “Top Gun: Maverick,” “Jumanji,” and “Arachnophobia.”
TMZ reports that Handy was found in the morning on Wednesday, June 3 in front of his Tarzana home with a stab wound to his chest. He was rushed to the hospital, but was ultimately pronounced dead.
Cops say the suspect in his murder is his girlfriend’s son, with him having made a “bizarre” 911 call where he told dispatchers, “I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin.” Authorities say that when they arrived at the scene, the suspect told them he was who they were looking for. He has been arrested, and his bail has been set at $2 million, but no possible motive has been revealed.
“Detectives believe this is an isolated incident and there appears to be no danger to the public at this time,” the police statement said, per Variety.
Handy’s career spanned five decades, with more than 100 acting credits.
Tributes Pour In For James Handy
“I remember him from season 1 of NYPD blue. A tremendous character actor. Terrible way to go,” one person wrote.
“That’s wild and so sad. James Handy was one of those ‘that guy’ actors you loved seeing pop up everywhere. RIP legend,” another person expressed.
“It is profoundly saddening to learn of this news. James Handy was a quintessential ‘that guy’ actor whose presence was always a welcome addition. Rest in peace, legend,” someone commented.
“So tragic Rest in peace James Handy,” a fan stated.
“What always strikes me in moments like these is how fragile life really is. One day someone is part of stories that entertain millions and the next they’re gone. Fame, status and success don’t make anyone immune to life’s uncertainties. Rest in peace James,” another fan posted.
“Terrible news. He was such a reliable character actor for decades. Rest in peace,” one fan said.
James Handy’s Career
In 2022’s “Top Gun: Maverick,” Handy appeared as the bartender. He also played the exterminator in 1995’s ““Jumanji” and appeared as the doctor who treated Hugh Jackman’s character in “Logan” in 2017. Then, there was his role in “Arachnophobia,” where he played Milton Briggs.
Some of his other credits include “The Rocketeer,” “Brighton Beach Memoirs,” “The Verdict” and “K-9.” As for television, he played Arthur Devlin in eight episodes of “Alias” as well as having recurring roles on “Melrose Place” and “NYPD Blue.” His other television appearances include “The West Wing,” “9-1-1,” “NCIS: Los Angeles,” “CSI: NY,” “The Young and The Restless,” “Castle,” “Criminal Minds,” “Cold Case,” “Without a Trace,” “ER,” “The X-Files” and “Mulaney.”
