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Art Evans, best known for playing Leslie Barnes in Die Hard 2, died at the age of 82 on December 21, 2024. In a statement to Variety, his publicist Erica Huntzingerm confirmed that Evans “passed away peacefully” and was “surrounded by family” when he breathed his last. Art Evans’ wife, Babe, in a statement said:
“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.”
While the actor’s family did not reveal the cause of his death, his wife requested “privacy at this time.”
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“A memorial will be held for friends and family to attend at a later date. Thank you,” she said.
Variety reported that Evans has been credited with more than 120 films and TV shows as he has worked in the industry for almost 50 years. In Die Hard 2, Art Evans played the character of the chief of communications and chief engineer at the Dulles International Airport.
Art Evans started his career with theatre before starring in his first film in 1972
Art Evans, the popular actor who worked in the film and TV industry for nearly five decades, started his career with Frank Silvera’s Theatre of Being. He then did several Broadway shows before starting his career in films and TV in 1972 with the movie Sisters.
Throughout the 1970s, he appeared in many movies, TV series, and shows, including Claudine, Amazing Grace, Big Time, Youngblood, Leadbelly, Fun with Dick and Jane, The In-Laws, and even The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again.
The 1980s was a golden time for the actor as he started getting recognition through films like A Soldier’s Story, Into the Night, Ruthless People, Native Son, White of the Eye, School Daze, The Might Quinn, and A Different World.
However, the 1990s got Art Evans films like Die Hard 2, which became a massive hit and got the actor a lot of praise for his role as Leslie Barnes. Barnes aids John McClane in combating terrorists who hack the airport's systems, grounding planes during a snowstorm. He is seen warning the planes, communicating with air traffic controllers, and helping McClane locate the terrorists.
After the success of Die Hard 2, Art also bagged other roles in movies like The Story of Us, Interstate 60, Never Die Alone, Everybody Hates Chris, and Shades of Ray. His last movie, Orphaned, where he played the role of Councilman Haley, was released in 2018.
After Evans' death, social media has been flooded with tributes and messages for the actor and his family. The actor is survived by his wife, Babe Evans, and son, Ogadae Evans.
