BIG SCREEN STAR

‘Die Hard 2’ and ‘A Soldier’s Story’ Star Art Evans Dies at 82

He played an air traffic control tower employee who helped Bruce Willis’ character stop terrorists in ‘Die Hard 2.’

Actor Art Evans, famous for his roles in A Soldier’s Story and Die Hard 2, died “peacefully in his sleep” on Saturday. He was 82.

Reps for the actor said he died from complications tied to diabetes, a disease he battled for “several years,” USA Today reported.

Among Evans’ most-famous roles came in 1990 when he played an air traffic control tower employee named “Barnes” who helped Bruce Willis’ character stop terrorists in Die Hard 2.

“Art was a remarkable talent who touched many lives with his work. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him,” a statement from his agents read. “Art’s legacy will never be forgotten.”

The actor, a native of Southern California, spent more than four decades in the industry. He notched credits on hit shows like Family Matters in 1994, Walker, Texas Ranger in 1996, and The X-Files in 2000.

He also landed on the big screen when he appeared in Fright Night (1985) and alongside Denzel Washington in 1984’s A Soldier’s Story, where he played Private James Wilkie. The latter film was a hit, earning three Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.

“Art was not only an incredible actor but a devoted husband, friend, and source of light to everyone who knew him,” Evans' wife, Babe Evans, said in a statement to USA Today. “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.”

Josh FialloBreaking News Reporter

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