Hollywood actor James Handy allegedly murdered in home by girlfriend’s son as details of 911 call emerge
New details on the death of veteran actor James Handy have been revealed by authorities.
The actor died on Wednesday, 3 June, after he was found in Tarzana, California with a fatal stab wound to the chest, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) said in a news release on Thursday, 4 June. He was 81 years old.
Police responded to the scene at Handy’s home after someone called 911, who told the dispatchers: "I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin."
Authorities believe the suspect, who has since been identified as the son of Handy's girlfriend, Michael Gledhill, called 911 to confess.
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When police arrived at the scene, Handy was found unconscious in his front yard. The Los Angeles Fire Department transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Gledhill, 44, was arrested and transported to Van Nuys Jail and he was charged with one count of murder. His bail has been set at $2 million, according to jail records.
Handy was born in New York City in 1945 and appeared in numerous films and television shows since 1977. He had roles in Arachnophobia, Jumanji, Unbreakable, Logan and as Jimmy in Top Gun: Maverick, which is now his final film role.
On TV he had roles in NYPD Blue, The X-Files, Criminal Minds and NCIS: Los Angeles.
“I could not have asked for a more talented, humble or gracious client and friend than James Handy,” Pam Ellis-Evenas, from the Ellis Talent Group, said in an email to The Associated Press.
Fans have paid tribute to the actor on social media and in forums following news of his death.
"That is really awful. RIP," one person wrote on Reddit.
Many fans also reflected on the numerous films and television shows in which Handy appeared throughout his career. Handy built a reputation as one of Hollywood's most reliable character actors, appearing in dozens of film and television productions over several decades. While he rarely took leading roles, audiences often recognized him from memorable supporting performances.
Another fan commented: "He was literally in everything in the 80s and 90s. He was truly a 'that guy' actor."
A third added: "This sucks. James Handy was one of those 'that guy' actors I always appreciated."
If you have any information about this case, contact LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division detectives at 818-374-9550. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS.
Greg Harris