**Tony Todd Passes Away: Celebrated Candyman Actor Dies at 69**

**Tony Todd, renowned for portraying the Candyman, has passed away in Los Angeles at age 69, leaving behind a significant impact on horror cinema.**

Tony Todd, the iconic American actor celebrated for his mesmerizing portrayal of the Candyman in horror films, has died at the age of 69 at his Los Angeles home, as reported on Thursday. Todd gained fame as the ghostly figure in the Candyman series, whose haunting legend is invoked by saying his name five times in front of a mirror, leading to terrifying consequences.

Todd's journey as Candyman began with the first film in 1992 and continued through sequels in 1995 and 1999, culminating in his reprisal of the role for the 2021 reboot, which serves as a direct continuation of the original story. Across his 40-year acting career, Todd amassed a diverse portfolio of work in hundreds of films, stage performances, and television shows, with memorable roles in notable franchises such as Transformers and Final Destination.

The character he portrayed, Daniel Robitaille, represents a poignant reflection on racial violence, depicting the tale of an artist wrongfully lynched in the 19th century. In the groundbreaking 1992 film, Todd's character is unintentionally summoned by a curious graduate student, setting off a horrifying chain of events that explores themes of urban legend and terror.

Recollecting the intense experience of filming the notorious bee scene—where he was stung 23 times—Todd once remarked to the Guardian in 2019, “Everything that’s worth making has to involve some sort of pain.” He emphasized the lasting impact of his Candyman role, noting how it resonates across different communities and has been a conversation starter in contexts as serious as gang intervention.

As tributes pour in, actor Virginia Madsen, who starred alongside Todd, expressed her grief, stating that he has transformed into "an angel," and characterized him as a "truly poetic man" with profound insights into the arts. She reminisced fondly over their shared journey, humorously addiing, "But I will not summon him in the mirror!"

The original film’s sequels expanded on Todd's role, showcasing the Candyman legend in varying contexts, including New Orleans and contemporary Los Angeles. Previous to his iconic portrayal, Todd made his film debut in 1986’s war drama, Platoon, marking the beginning of an illustrious career in the entertainment sector.

In reflection of Todd's legacy, many within the industry continue to celebrate his influence, recognizing his unparalleled contribution to horror cinema.