James Handy, Veteran Actor, Stabbed to Death

James Handy, an accomplished character actor known for his roles in more than 150 films and TV productions over a span of 50 years—including hits like “Jumanji” and “Top Gun: Maverick”—was tragically killed in Tarzana on Wednesday. He was 81.

While he may not have been a household name, Handy was a familiar face in Hollywood, recognized by countless movie and television audiences for his steady presence.

Born in New York City, Handy’s acting career took off in the late 1970s. He gradually built a substantial resume, appearing regularly in both major films and popular television series throughout the decades.

Fans might recall his recent portrayal of bartender Jimmy in the 2022 blockbuster “Top Gun: Maverick,” alongside Jennifer Connelly. Yet, those who grew up in earlier decades likely remember him for his memorable supporting roles, such as the exterminator Carl Bentley in “Jumanji,” Milton Briggs in “Arachnophobia,” and the doctor in “Logan,” featuring Hugh Jackman.

Selected Movie Credits

• “Tap”
• “Verdict”
• “Bird”
• “K-9”
• “Rocketeer”
• “Garding Tess”
• “Unbreakable”
• “15 Minutes”
• “Suburbicon”
• “The O.J. Simpson Story”
• “Senior Entourage”

Handy’s career spanned over four decades, and included various genres—thrillers, comedies, and action films—where he often played authoritative figures or down-to-earth supporting roles that helped ground ensemble casts. His presence on television was equally prominent.

Selected TV Credits

• “Quantum Leap”
• “Murder, She Wrote”
• “Melrose Place”
• “NYPD Blue”
• “X-Files”
• “Profiler”
• “Law and Order”
• “West Wing”
• “Alias”
• “ER”
• “Third Watch”
• “Walker, Texas Ranger”
• “Cold Case”
• “CSI: New York”
• “Criminal Minds”
• “Castle”
• “Rizzoli & Isles”
• “NCIS: Los Angeles”
• “9-1-1”

Recurring Roles

• CIA Director Arthur Devlin in “Alias”
• Lou Handleman in “Profiler”
• Captain Jim Haverill in “NYPD Blue”