Actor James Handy Stabbed to Death in Los Angeles
James Handy, a US actor recognized for his roles in films such as Jumanji and Top Gun: Maverick, was fatally stabbed at his residence in Los Angeles, according to police reports.
Handy, aged 81, was discovered unconscious in the front garden of his home in Tarzana, California, on Wednesday, suffering multiple stab wounds to the chest.
Michael Gledhill, 44, the son of Handy's girlfriend, has been taken into custody on suspicion of murder, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) confirmed.
Authorities responded to a 911 call reporting "unknown trouble," during which the caller stated,
"I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin."
Career and Legacy
Born in New York, Handy had a prolific career spanning six decades, appearing in numerous films and television shows. Although he rarely played leading roles, he was a consistent supporting actor and guest star in many productions.
His extensive credits include appearances in NYPD Blue, K-9, Law & Order, CSI: NY, Logan, Alias, Castle, NCIS, The West Wing, Arachnophobia, The X Files, and Murder, She Wrote.
Handy's latest film role was in the 2022 release Top Gun: Maverick, where he portrayed Jimmy, a bartender working alongside the character played by Jennifer Connelly, who is Tom Cruise's love interest.
Tributes from Industry Peers
Entertainment writer Jay Bobbin expressed sorrow over Handy's passing, stating he was
"heartbroken to learn about the passing of superb character actor".
Don Winslow, a writer and producer who created the 2001 procedural drama UC: Undercover, in which Handy appeared, described him as a
"terrific actor".
Winslow added,
"We were honoured to have him on UC: Undercover in a recurring role. His performances were always special."
Details of the Incident and Arrest
Following the incident, the LAPD reported that Gledhill
"flagged down nearby responding officers, telling them he was the one they were looking for."
The police statement further clarified,
"The suspect resides at the location with his mother, who is the victim's girlfriend."
Authorities indicated that detectives consider this an isolated event and stated,
"there appears to be no danger to the public."
After his arrest, Gledhill was transported to Van Nuys Jail and formally charged with one count of murder. His bail was set at $2 million (£1.5 million).
