Tragic news from Los Angeles: Veteran character actor James Handy, best known for his roles in Top Gun: Maverick, Jumanji, Arachnophobia, and Logan, has been fatally stabbed at the age of 81.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, Handy was found unconscious in the front yard of a home in Tarzana on Wednesday morning with multiple stab wounds to the chest. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Suspect Apprehended

Police quickly arrested Michael Gledhill, 44, the son of Handy’s girlfriend. Gledhill reportedly called 911 himself, confessing to the stabbing, and flagged down officers at the scene. He has been taken into custody on suspicion of murder.

LAPD described the incident as isolated, stating there is no ongoing threat to the public.

A Long and Respected Career

James Handy enjoyed a prolific five-decade career in Hollywood, appearing in dozens of films and television shows. Some of his most memorable roles include:

• The bartender Jimmy in Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
• Roles in Jumanji (1995) and Arachnophobia (1990)
• Supporting parts in The Verdict, Logan, and popular TV series like NYPD Blue, Alias, and The X-Files

What do you think? James Handy was a familiar face in Hollywood for generations. Share your favorite role or memory of him in the comments below — we read every single one.