Remembering Art Evans: Celebrated Actor Of "A Soldier's Story" And "Die Hard 2" Passes Away At 82
Actor Art Evans, known for memorable roles in "A Soldier's Story" and "Die Hard 2," has passed away at 82. His agents, LyNea Bell and Charleen McGuire, confirmed his death on Saturday due to complications from diabetes, a condition he had battled for years.
Evans’ wife, Babe, described him as "an incredible actor, devoted husband, and source of light," adding, "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."
Born Arthur James Evans in Berkeley, California, he began his acting journey on stage, debuting in James Baldwin's play "The Amen Corner" at Frank Silvera’s Theater of Being, which later went to Broadway in 1965. After a series of uncredited film roles in the early 1970s, Evans gained recognition in the 1975 TV movie "The Orphan and the Dude," portraying Curtis "The Dude" Brown.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Evans appeared in numerous TV series and films, including "Leadbelly," "Youngblood," "MAS*H," "The Fall Guy," and "Hill Street Blues." His breakout role came in 1984’s "A Soldier’s Story," where he played Private Wilkie in a film that earned three Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.
Evans’ versatility shone in the sitcom "Nine to Five" from 1986 to 1988 and in 1990’s "Die Hard 2," where he played Barnes, an air traffic controller assisting Bruce Willis' iconic character John McClane. His career extended into the 1990s and 2000s, with roles in series like "Doogie Howser, M.D.," "Family Matters," "Walker, Texas Ranger," "The X-Files," and "Monk."
In his final years, Evans lent his voice to Disney+’s animated series "The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder" in 2022 and 2023.
Bell and McGuire celebrated Evans' talent and influence, stating, "Art’s legacy will never be forgotten. He was a remarkable talent who touched many lives with his work."
Evans is survived by his wife, Babe, and their son, Ogadae. Memorial details will be announced in the coming days.
