Veteran character actor James Handy, 81, died after being stabbed multiple times in the chest at his home in Tarzana, California. He was found unconscious in his front yard at 9:30am on Wednesday and later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Michael Gledhill, 44, the son of Handy's girlfriend, was arrested at the scene and charged with murder. Bail has been set at $2 million. According to police, when officers arrived, Gledhill told them "the one they were looking for." A 911 caller had previously stated: "I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin." Police confirmed that Gledhill resides at the location with his mother, who is Handy's girlfriend.
Handy built a long career as a character actor spanning multiple decades. He was known for roles in the 2022 blockbuster "Top Gun: Maverick," as well as "Jumanji," "Logan," and "K-911." His television credits include appearances in "Law & Order," "NCIS: Los Angeles," and "Criminal Minds." His career began in 1977 on the television series "Ryan's Hope," and he was born in New York City.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office has emphasized the seriousness of the charges. Murder charges in California carry the possibility of a life sentence. Prosecutors have stated the suspect must be held accountable.
The circumstances that led to the fatal confrontation remain under investigation. Police have not released details about what occurred prior to the stabbing. The case represents a notable loss to the entertainment community, where Handy had become a familiar presence in supporting and featured roles across film and television productions.
This incident adds to a series of violent crimes affecting members of the entertainment industry in the Los Angeles area in recent years. The investigation into the stabbing is ongoing, and Gledhill is being held pending further legal proceedings.