James Handy's Death
Actor James Handy, known for 'Top Gun: Maverick,' dies at 81; suspect arrested for murder
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James Handy, the 81-year-old character actor best known for his roles in "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Jumanji," was stabbed to death on June 3, 2026, at his home in the Tarzana neighborhood of Los Angeles, according to LAPD. The suspect, 44-year-old Michael Gledhill, is the son of Handy's girlfriend and was arrested at the scene after flagging down responding officers himself.
Before police arrived, Gledhill called 911 and allegedly told dispatchers: "I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin," according to Los Angeles Times. He was booked on one count of murder and is being held on $2 million bail.
Stabbing Victim Found in Front Yard at 9:30 AM
LAPD officers responded to a 911 call of "unknown trouble" at around 9:30 AM on June 3 in the 19200 block of Erwin Street, according to LAPD. They found Handy unconscious in the front yard, suffering from at least one stab wound to the chest. Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Gledhill did not flee. He flagged down the arriving officers and identified himself as the person they were looking for, according to CBS News. Police took him into custody without any struggle. Detectives from the LAPD's Robbery-Homicide Division, Valley Bureau Section, took over the investigation the following day.
Gledhill Lived at the Home With Handy and His Mother
The killing appears to be domestic in nature. Handy was in a long-term relationship with Gledhill's mother, and all three lived together at the Erwin Street home, according to Forbes. The LAPD said the incident appears isolated and stated there is "no danger to the public at this time."
The religious phrasing Gledhill used in his 911 call has drawn attention. Legal observers noted the "son of man" quote could point to a potential insanity or diminished capacity defense if the case goes to trial, according to The Wrap. A psychiatric evaluation is expected to be ordered by the court.
Handy Built Over 150 Credits Across Five Decades
Handy was a fixture of American film and television since his debut in the 1977 soap opera "Ryan's Hope." He went on to accumulate over 150 screen credits, according to Variety. His most recognized roles include the bartender "Jimmy" in "Top Gun: Maverick" (2022), a supporting part in "Jumanji" (1995), and Captain Jim Haverill in the long-running series "NYPD Blue."
He also appeared in "Logan" (2017) and "Arachnophobia" (1990), making him a familiar face across generations of moviegoers. Director Brian Connors, who worked with Handy on the 2021 film "Senior Entourage," posted a tribute on Facebook and described him as a dedicated professional, according to Los Angeles Times.
Murder Charge Carries Potential 25-to-Life Sentence
Gledhill faces one count of murder under California Penal Code 187(a), according to LAPD. His booking number is 7251867 and his bail is set at $2,000,000. If convicted, he could face 25 years to life in state prison. The investigation is being led by LAPD Detectives Simonyan and Lopez.
Anyone with information about the case is urged to contact the LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division, Valley Bureau Section. The Tarzana neighborhood, described by local residents as typically quiet, was shaken by the violent death of a well-known figure in its community, according to Alaska's News Source.
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