Joe Don Baker, the tough and charismatic actor best known for his role as vigilante sheriff Buford Pusser in Walking Tall and for his appearances in the James Bond franchise, has died at 89. He passed away from lung cancer on May 7, 2025, in Los Angeles, though his death was announced later on May 15.
Born in 1936 in Groesbeck, Texas, Baker started as a football player and Army serviceman before turning to acting. His breakout came in 1973 with Walking Tall, a surprise hit that made him a household name. He went on to star in over 50 films, including Cape Fear, Mars Attacks!, and Reality Bites.
In the Bond universe, Baker made history by playing both a villain (Brad Whitaker) in The Living Daylights and later a CIA ally (Jack Wade) in GoldenEye and Tomorrow Never Dies. He also earned critical acclaim for his role in the British miniseries Edge of Darkness, which brought him a BAFTA nomination.
Known for his rugged screen presence, Baker was equally loved off-screen for his kindness, love of nature, books, and cats. He retired after his final film, Mud (2012), and lived quietly in his later years. Baker was married from 1969 to 1980, had no children, and is survived by relatives in Texas.
Rest in peace, Joe Don Baker — a true Hollywood original.