In brief
Tony Todd, the prolific American actor most recognized for his portrayal of the titular character in the Candyman horror films, has passed away at the age of 69. Reports state Todd died in his home in Los Angeles on Wednesday night. His most notable role came from his performance as the ghostly figure Candyman, known for his terrifying presence and hook for a hand, who is summoned by saying his name five times in front of a mirror.
Todd first brought the character to life in the original 1992 film, continuing in sequels released in 1995 and 1999, and most recently reprising the role in the 2021 film, which serves as a direct sequel. Throughout an impressive career spanning over four decades, Todd graced both the big screen and stage, accumulating a catalog of credits that includes prominent appearances in films such as Final Destination and Transformers. Candyman’s eerie narrative includes the ghost of Daniel Robitaille, a black artist who was lynched in the 1800s. The 1992 film follows a graduate student in Chicago who unintentionally summons Candyman, leading to a series of chilling events. During an interview, Todd recounted the famous bee scene where he endured 23 stings, earning a $1,000 bonus for each, stating, “Everything that’s worth making has to involve some sort of pain.”His co-star in the original film, Virginia Madsen, expressed her profound sorrow upon hearing the news of his passing, calling Todd "an angel" and "a truly poetic man" with a deep appreciation for the arts. Madsen humorously added her hopes that Todd would “haunt” her from beyond, albeit without the need for summoning in front of a mirror.The sequel, Candyman: Farewell to the Flesh, released in 1995, saw Todd’s character reemerge in New Orleans, while the third installment, Candyman: Day of the Dead, came out in 1999, depicting events set in Los Angeles in the year 2020. Todd praised the 2021 iteration, lauding director Nia DaCosta for her vision, while Madsen acknowledged the “gift” from co-writer Jordan Peele that allowed them to reconnect on-screen.Before his success as Candyman, Todd’s cinematic journey began with a role in the acclaimed film Platoon released in 1986. As tributes continue to pour in, Tony Todd will remain an unforgettable figure in horror cinema.
