Actor James Handy, 81, stabbed to death; stepson arrested after 911 confession

American actor James Handy, recognized for his supporting roles in films like "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Jumanji," has died at the age of 81. Handy was fatally stabbed at his residence in Tarzana, California.

Authorities have identified Michael Gledhill, the son of Handy's partner, as the main suspect in the killing. According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), officers responded to a 911 call on June 3 reporting an unspecified situation at the actor's home. Audio from the call, obtained by People magazine, reveals the caller identified himself as the son of a man and claimed responsibility for the murder, stating, "I am the son of the man, I just killed the man of sin."

Upon arrival, police found Handy unconscious in his garden with a stab wound to the chest. Paramedics transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after admission. Gledhill, 44, was arrested and is being held on a $2 million bail, facing a murder charge, according to jail records. Investigations into the circumstances of the homicide are ongoing.

Handy, who was born in New York City, built a decades-long career as a familiar face in American cinema and television. His notable film credits include "Jumanji," "Arachnophobia," "Unbreakable," "Logan," and "Top Gun: Maverick." He also made appearances in popular television series such as "NYPD Blue," "Rizzoli & Isles," "Alias," "NCIS: Los Angeles," and "Criminal Minds." His last film appearance was in the highly successful "Top Gun: Maverick."