Art Evans, the actor known for his roles in Die Hard 2 and A Soldier’s Story has died. He was 82.
A representative for Evans told Deadline he died on December 21 of diabetes, adding that it was “a condition he courageously managed for many years”.
His wife, Babe Evans, described him as “a devoted husband, friend, and source of light to everyone who knew him” in a statement to the publication.
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“His laughter, passion, and love of life will be deeply missed,” she continued.
“While our hearts are heavy, we celebrate the legacy of joy and inspiration he leaves behind.”
The actor was “surrounded by family” when he “passed away peacefully”, according to an obituary cited by Variety.
Evans’ talent representatives LyNea Bell and Charleen McGuire have paid tribute to the star, remembering him as “a remarkable talent who touched many lives with his work”.
“He will be deeply missed by all who knew him,” they shared.
Playwright LaDarrion Williams took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his memories of working with Evans.
“I was so honoured to be able to work with Art Evans on a play that I helped write,” he wrote alongside photos of the pair.
“He was genuine and didn’t play when it came to the art of theatre. Rest easy, playa.”
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Evans was born on March 27 in Los Angeles, getting his start in show businesses at Frank Silvera’s Theatre of Being.
In 1976, he landed his first credited role onscreen in an episode of Chico and the Man.
Throughout his career spanning more than 50 years, Evans appeared in many films and TV series including A Soldier’s Story, Die Hard 2, M*A*S*H, Mad About You, Walker Texas Ranger and The X-Files.
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It was in 1984 that he starred alongside actors Denzel Washington and Adolph Caesar in A Soldier’s Story. Six years later he appeared opposite Bruce Willis in Die Hard 2 as Leslie Barnes, an air traffic control tower employee who helps the main character John McClane, stop terrorists.
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Most recently, Evans lent his voice to two episodes of the animated The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder in 2022.
He is survived by his wife Babe and son, Ogadae Evans.
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