Art Evans, renowned for his portrayal of Leslie Barnes, an air traffic control worker, in the 1990 action blockbuster “Die Hard 2,” passed away in California on December 21, 2024. His death, at the age of 82, followed a battle with diabetes.
The actor’s wife, Babe Evans, confirmed his death and shared, “Art was not only an incredible actor but a devoted husband, friend, and source of light to everyone who knew him. 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.”
Evans’ representatives, LyNea Bell and Charleen McGuire, praised him as a “remarkable talent who touched many lives with his work.”
Born in Berkeley, California, Evans had an illustrious career spanning over 40 years, during which he amassed more than 120 credits across movies, theater, and television. His role in the 1984 Oscar-nominated war drama “A Soldier’s Story” was a turning point in his career.
In “Die Hard 2,” Evans’ character, Leslie Barnes, is an air traffic control tower worker who assists Bruce Willis’s character, John McClane, in preventing a terrorist attack at Dulles International Airport. The film, which was released in 1990, was a commercial success and solidified Evans’ reputation as a dependable character actor in Hollywood.
Evans’ career in theater saw a significant milestone in 1965, when he appeared in “The Amen Corner,” which made its Broadway debut. His first credited role on screen was in 1976’s “Chico and the Man,” following an uncredited role in “Claudine” two years earlier.
Over the course of his career, Evans starred in numerous notable films like “Fright Night,” where he played Detective Lennox, “Into The Night,” “Ruthless People,” “Native Son,” and “White of the Eye.” He also made appearances in popular TV series such as “MAS*H,” “Hill Street Blues,” “Walker, Texas Ranger,” “The X-Files,” “Monk,” and “Family Matters,” showcasing his versatility.
Director Steve Hughes paid tribute to Evans on social media platform X, underscoring his memorable roles in films like “Die Hard 2,” “Trespass,” “Ruthless People,” “Fright Night,” “A Soldier’s Story,” “CB4,” and “Metro.”
Screenwriter LaDarrion Williams also commemorated Evans on social media, stating, “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.”
Until his final role, Evans remained active in the entertainment industry, lending his voice to the Disney+ animated series “The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder” in 2022 and 2023.
He is survived by his wife, Babe, and their son, Ogadae.