Actor Art Evans, Known for ‘A Soldier’s Story,’ ‘Die Hard 2,’ Dies at 82

Art Evans attends Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles' Builders Ball in Beverly Hills, Calif., on Sept. 27, 2018. Leon Bennett/Getty Images

Art Evans, an actor renowned for his roles in “A Soldier’s Story” and “Die Hard 2,” has died at the age of 82 due to complications arising from a yearslong battle with diabetes.

The actor’s wife, Babe Evans, confirmed his death in a statement shared on social media.

“My beloved transitioned on Saturday, December 21, 2024,” she wrote.

“I’m devastated beyond the moon but I am so appreciative of the beautiful life we shared.”

Born on March 27, 1942, in Berkeley, California, the acclaimed film and stage performer’s career spanned over five decades.

“Art was not only an incredible actor but a devoted husband, friend, and source of light to everyone who knew him,” Babe Evans shared in a separate statement, per 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.”

After studying drama at the Los Angeles-based theater company the Theatre of Being, Art Evans later acted in a Broadway production of “The Amen Corner” in 1965.

Throughout the 1970s, the actor appeared in more than a dozen film and television roles, including “Amazing Grace” (1974), “Chico and the Man” (1976), “Big Time” (1977), “Youngblood” (1978), and “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” (1979).

Evans landed his breakout role in 1984, portraying Private Wilkie in the war drama “A Soldier’s Story,” starring alongside actors Denzel Washington, Adolph Caesar, and David Alan Grier. The film was nominated for “Best Motion Picture” at the Golden Globes the following year.

In 1990, the actor starred in the Bruce Willis-led thriller “Die Hard 2,” playing Leslie Barnes, an air traffic controller who helps Willis’s character, John McClane, thwart a terrorist attack.

Evans, who had more than 120 acting credits to his name, was also known for his roles in “Fright Night” (1985), “School Daze” (1988), “Adventures in Babysitting” (1989), “Revenge of the Nerds” (1991), “Metro” (1997), “The Story of Us” (1999), and “Orphaned” (2018).

‘An Outstanding Performer’

The news of Evans’s passing triggered an outpouring of tributes online, underscoring the actor’s legacy within the entertainment industry.

In a statement posted to Instagram, the streaming service HBCU+ said Evans “shined as an outstanding performer through the years.”

“The HBCU+/UEN family is saddened to hear of the passing of acclaimed actor Art Evans,” the platform wrote. “One of his stand out roles was his brilliant portrayal of Cedar Cloud in the transformative movie School Daze. Rest In Peace”

On Facebook, ABC7 Eyewitness News reporter George Pennacchio wrote that Evans “always had a smile to share.”

“I always loved seeing Art on the red carpet,” added Pennacchio. “He was always just so nice and fun to interview. May he R.I.P.”

“You were my legend!” wrote Chad Coleman, an actor best known for his roles on “The Wire,” “The Walking Dead,” and “Copshop.”

Actress and comedian Dahéli Hall also posted a tribute online, noting that she felt honored to have been a part of Evans’s life.

“I called him Uncle Art. The world knew him as the actor Art Evans ... I love him and will miss him dearly,” Hall wrote.

“Don’t worry, Uncle Art, your Babe will always be loved and cared for and I will continue to bring her joy and laughter—rest until we meet again.”