Die Hard 2 star dies aged 82 as wife issues heartbreaking statement: ‘A devoted husband, friend, and source of light!’
Art Evans, the veteran actor known for his roles in Die Hard 2 and A Soldier’s Story, has died aged 82.
The actor passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 21, surrounded by family.
His death was confirmed by his wife Babe Evans, who released a statement saying: “We are heartbroken to share that Art has passed away. Please respect our privacy at this time. A memorial will be held for friends and family to attend at a later date.”
His representatives, LyNea Bell and Charleen McGuire, also confirmed the news.
Evans died from complications related to diabetes, a condition he had battled for several years.
“Art was not only an incredible actor but a devoted husband, friend, and source of light to everyone who knew him,” his wife said in a statement via his representatives.
“His laughter, passion, and love of life will be deeply missed. While our hearts are heavy, we celebrate the legacy of joy and inspiration he leaves behind.”
His agents added: “Art was a remarkable talent who touched many lives with his work. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Art’s legacy will never be forgotten.”
Evans was perhaps best known for his role as Leslie Barnes in the 1990 film Die Hard 2, where he played an air traffic control tower employee who assists Bruce Willis’ John McClane in stopping terrorists.
He earned critical acclaim for his performance in the 1984 war drama A Soldier’s Story, playing Private Wilkie alongside Denzel Washington and Adolph Caesar.
The film went on to receive three Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.
His other notable film appearances included roles in Fright Night, School Daze, Tales from the Hood and Metro.
He was also the first victim in John Carpenter’s 1983 film Christine.
Born in Berkeley, California in 1942, Evans amassed over 120 credits in film and television during his five-decade career.
His acting journey began at Frank Silvera’s Theater of Being in Los Angeles, where he starred in The Amen Corner, which later transferred to Broadway in 1965.
On television, Evans made memorable appearances in numerous popular series including MAS*H, Hill Street Blues, Monk, The X-Files and Family Matters.
He played Mr Johnson, father of Ron Johnson (Darryl M. Bell), in A Different World.
His final role was providing his voice to two episodes of The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder in 2022 and 2023.
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I was so honored to be able to work with Art Evans on a play that I helped write. He was genuine and didn’t play when it came to the art of theatre.
Rest easy, playa.
🕊️ https://t.co/BXoVxTG8TP pic.twitter.com/Hj5zYnRXvw
— LaDarrion Williams (@ItsLaDarrion) December 22, 2024
Evans is survived by his wife, Babe Evans, and their son, Ogadae Evans.
A memorial service will be held soon, with details to be announced in the coming days.
According to his representatives, Evans was a long-practicing Buddhist with SGI-USA, believing that life and death were two alternating phases of life that made up a larger universal rhythm.
His spiritual beliefs were described as an integral part of who he was, offering him peace and insight throughout his life.