Art Evans, 'Die Hard 2' actor, remembered as a remarkable talent after his death at 82

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Arthur James Evans aka Art Evans, best known for his role as Leslie Barnes in 'Die Hard 2', died at the age of 82 on Saturday, December 21. Reports indicate that Evans died due to complications from diabetes, a condition he had battled for several years. 

He is survived by his wife, Babe Evans, and their son, Ogadae. In the wake of his death, surrounded by loved ones, his wife has shared a heartfelt tribute to her devoted husband.

The renowned actor's death comes just days after actress Diane Delano, best known for 'Northern Exposure', died on December 13, and weeks after Michael Cole, the last surviving member of 'The Mod Squad', died at the age of 84 on December 10.

Art Evans was a devoted husband, claims wife Babe Evans

According to the statement shared by Art Evans' wife Babe, she praised her husband for being a devoted one. She said in the statement, “Art was not only an incredible actor but a devoted husband, friend, and source of light to everyone who knew him."

Promising to celebrate his legacy, she said, “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.”

She concluded, “We are heartbroken to share that Art has passed away. Please respect our privacy at this time. A memorial will be held for friends and family to attend at a later date. Thank you.”

Who was Art Evans?

Art Evans, born on March 27, 1942, in California, began his acting career at Frank Silvera's Theatre of Being where he starred in 'The Amen Corner.' Over the course of his career, he landed more than 120 acting roles. 

On the big screen, he appeared in films such as 'Christine' (where he played the first victim of the sinister car), 'Fright Night', 'School Daze', 'Tales from the Hood', and 'Metro.'

Evans earned critical acclaim for his performance as Private James Wilkie in 'A Soldier's Story' (1984), starring alongside Denzel Washington and Adolph Caesar.

In his iconic role as Leslie Barnes in the 1990 action sequel 'Die Hard 2', Evans starred opposite Bruce Willis as an air traffic control tower employee who assists Willis' character, John McClane, in fighting off terrorists at Dulles International Airport.

Notably, as reported by Daily Mail, Evans continued acting until last year, with his final screen role being a voice acting role in the Disney+ show 'The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder.'

Art Evans' fans reminisce about actor's renowned movies after his death

After hearing about the death of the beloved actor Art Evans, many internet users quickly took to online platforms to share their thoughts and condolences. 

One fan remembered, "Great actor. He played Chris Rock’s father in 'CB4.' He was in a lot of films and TV shows. RIP."

Another fan added, "'A Soldier's Story' was some of his best work. Played the cheese eating private who would do anything to get his sergeants stripes back."

A Facebook user commented, "Ah no may he rest in peace. I just watched 'Die Hard 2' today on TNT he played so many memorable roles too such as the old man from the doll story from 'Tales from the Hood' Ben aka Santa Clause on the Xmas episode of family matters."

A person said, "RIP 🙏🏽Was A Great Actor, 'A Soldier Story' and I remember him in Stevie Wonder 's Video for 'Go Home'." 

A netizen wrote, "RIP 'Die Hard' for forever." 

Finally a person said, "RIHP To A Wonderful Actor 🙏🏽! My Deepest Condolences & Prayers To His Family 🙏🏽"

This article contains remarks made on the internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online