‘Top Gun: Maverick’ Actor Murdered by Girlfriend’s Son

Authorities in Los Angeles are investigating the death of actor James Handy, who appeared in films such as Jumanji and Top Gun: Maverick. The report comes from law enforcement statements shared by the Los Angeles Police Department and coverage from news agencies including ABC7 and FOX11.

Police said the incident happened early Wednesday morning at a home in the 19200 block of Erwin Street in Tarzana. Officers were called to the scene after a 911 call was made with disturbing language. According to police, the caller said, “I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin.” The message immediately led authorities to treat the situation as urgent.

When officers arrived, they found 81-year-old James Handy unconscious in the front yard of the home. Police said he had suffered multiple stab wounds to the chest. Emergency responders rushed him to a nearby hospital, but he was later pronounced dead.

Shortly after the discovery, police said a man later identified as 44-year-old Michael Gledhill approached officers and told them he was the person they were looking for. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, Gledhill is the son of Handy’s girlfriend and had been living at the residence with his mother.

Gledhill was arrested on suspicion of murder. Authorities confirmed that his bail was set at 2 million dollars. At the time of reporting, officials said it was not immediately clear whether he had legal representation.

Police have not released a clear motive for the attack. Investigators are still working to understand what led to the violent incident inside the home. The LAPD stated that the investigation is ongoing and more details may be released as they become available.

James Handy was a veteran actor with a long career in television and film. He had close to 150 acting credits listed on IMDb, according to entertainment records. His career stretched back to the 1970s, with appearances in a wide range of popular television series.

He was known for his role as an exterminator in the 1995 film Jumanji, which starred Robin Williams. More recently, he appeared in Top Gun: Maverick, where he played a bartender named Jimmy. The film introduced him to a new generation of viewers.

Handy also made many guest appearances on well-known television shows. These included The X-Files, NCIS: Los Angeles, CSI: NY, ER, Criminal Minds, Castle, Cold Case, Without a Trace, The West Wing, and 9-1-1. His work made him a familiar face in American television dramas over several decades.

In a statement shared through the Ellis Talent Group, a representative remembered him warmly. Pam Ellis-Evenas said, “I could not have asked for a more talented, humble or gracious client and friend than James Handy.”

Friends, colleagues, and fans have expressed shock at the news, remembering Handy for his long career and steady presence in both film and television. Many of his past roles have resurfaced online as people reflect on his work and legacy.

As of now, police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death. Authorities have not confirmed further details about what may have triggered the attack, and the case remains open as detectives gather more evidence and statements.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!