(Tribune News Service) — Art Evans, an actor best known for his roles in “Die Hard 2,” “Fright Night,” “A Soldier’s Story” and more, has died. He was 82.

Evans died Dec. 21 due to complications from diabetes, according to his wife, Babe Evans, Entertainment Weekly reports. Evans “passed away peacefully” while “surrounded by family,” according to his obituary.

“Art was not only an incredible actor but a devoted husband, friend, and source of light to everyone who knew him,” Babe said in a statement. “His laughter, passion, and love of life will be deeply missed. While our hearts are heavy, we celebrate the legacy of joy and inspiration he leaves behind.”

Born March 27, 1942, in Berkeley, California, Evans’ first film appearance came in 1972 psychological thriller film “Sisters,” directed by Brian De Palma. He appeared in a number of films and television shows through the 1970s, including “Death Wish,” “Chico and the Man,” “Police Woman,” “Roosevelt and Truman,” and more.

In 1983, Evans appeared in John Carpenter’s 1983 horror, “Christine,” in which he was the film’s first victim. The following year, he co-starred alongside Denzel Washington and Adolph Caesar in “A Soldier’s Story,” one of his career-defining roles. He also appeared in 1985′s “Fright Night,” playing the role of Detective Lennox.

Perhaps Evans’ best-known role was in 1990′s “Die Hard 2,” in which he plays air traffic controller Leslie Barnes and helps John McClane, played by Bruce Willis, thwart a terrorist attack.

Evans also appeared in “Doogie Howser, M.D.,” “Revenge of the Nerds,” “Family Matters,” “Walker, Texas Ranger,” “The X-Files,” and more. His final acting credit came as the voice of Charlie in cartoon TV series “The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder” in 2023.

In addition to Babe, Evans is also survived by their son, Ogadae Evans.

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