American actor Tony Todd, renowned for his portrayal of the horror character Candyman in the film series, has died at the age of 69 at his home in California, according to multiple reports.
Todd had an extensive and impactful career in the entertainment industry, appearing in over 200 films and television shows.
He made his debut in the 1986 fantasy-drama “Sleepwalk” and went on to feature in notable 80s films such as “Platoon” and “Lean on Me.” His breakthrough came in 1992 with “Candyman,” a role he reprised in three sequels, including Nia DaCosta’s 2021 installment.
The character of Candyman held special significance for Todd. In a 1995 interview with The Washington Post, he expressed his sense of responsibility in portraying the character, noting that Candyman was the only Black horror icon at the time.
The 1992 film follows Todd’s character as he is accidentally summoned by a graduate student in Chicago fascinated by the urban legend, leading to a series of horrific events.
Todd, who enjoyed a prolific 40-year career, appeared in countless films, stage productions, and television dramas, including notable roles in the “Transformers” and “Final Destination” series.
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Reflecting on his experiences, Todd shared a memorable moment with The Guardian in 2019 regarding the film’s iconic scene where he is swarmed by bees.
He revealed that he was stung 23 times during filming and received a $1,000 bonus for each sting.
“Everything that’s worth making has to involve some sort of pain,” he noted, underscoring his dedication to his craft.