However, it was the 1992 horror film Candyman that cemented Todd’s status as a horror legend. His portrayal of Daniel Robitaille, a vengeful spirit with a hook for a hand who haunts a Chicago housing project, was not just terrifying but poignantly highlighted themes of racism and social inequality.

Todd’s performance was so committed that he famously agreed to an ordeal involving live bees, earning an extra $1,000 for each of the 23 times he was stung during one of the film’s most famous scenes.

Candyman wasn’t just a role for Todd but a tool for social commentary. He revisited this iconic character in Jordan Peele’s 2021 reboot, continuing to impact new generations.

Off-screen, Todd dedicated himself to community service, conducting acting workshops for underprivileged youth and engaging in gang-intervention efforts.

Credit: Kevin Winter / Getty

Reflecting on his most iconic role, Todd once said in an interview with the Guardian: “I’ve done 200 movies, this is the one that stays in people’s minds. It affects people of all races. I’ve used it as an introductory tool in gang-intervention work: what frightens you? What horrible things have you experienced?”

As the film industry and fans worldwide remember Tony Todd, New Line Cinema expressed its condolences, stating: “The industry has lost a legend. We have lost a cherished friend. Rest in peace, Tony, -Your Final Destination Family.”