Tony Todd, the American actor renowned for his role as the unforgettable, hook-wielding ghost in the “Candyman” film franchise, passed away on Wednesday night at his home in Marina Del Rey, California. He was 69, just a month shy of turning 70. Known for his towering presence and deep, captivating voice, Todd brought an extraordinary blend of terror and elegance to his performances that left audiences both thrilled and haunted.

Born in Washington, D.C., as the son of Evetta Lyons Gaither, Todd grew up in Hartford, Connecticut. With his deep, resonant voice and imposing presence, Todd managed to strike that rare balance of both scaring and captivating audiences — a true master of the craft. Tony Todd’s big break came with his role as an army sergeant struggling with heroin addiction in Oliver Stone’s Platoon (1986). The iconic movie went on to win the Academy Award for Best Picture that year, marking a significant milestone in Todd’s career​. Tony Todd was also a dedicated advocate for American military veterans, actively supporting various initiatives to honor their service and sacrifice.