Seasoned actor Tom Bower, recognized for his notable roles in “Die Hard 2” and “The Waltons,” has died at 86 years old.
Robert Bower, Tom’s brother, reported that he passed away peacefully in his sleep at his residence in Los Angeles, California on May 30. The cause of death remains undisclosed.
Prior to his acting debut in 1972, Bower attended the John Cassavetes Shadows Workshop and worked as a private investigator for 15 years. His acting career spanned over five decades, featuring roles in a multitude of film and television projects, starting with “The Basic Training of Pavlo Hummel” where he acted alongside Al Pacino.
Bower is primarily remembered for his role as Marvin in the 1990 action film “Die Hard 2,” where his character, a janitor, assists Bruce Willis’s John McClane in averting a terrorist scheme at Dulles International Airport. His portrayal in the film is often noted for its humor and crucial role in the plot.
Bower also earned acclaim on television, especially for his depiction of Dr. Curtis Willard on the popular series “The Waltons.” His character, who marries Mary Ellen Walton, was a key part of the storyline during his presence on the show from 1975-1978.
Alongside these roles, Bower’s filmography comprises roles in “Nixon,” “A Clear and Present Danger,” “American Me,” “Raising Cain,” “Beverly Hills Cop II,” “The Negotiator,” “Hearts in Atlantis,” and “Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans.” His extensive television credits include guest appearances on popular series such as “The Office,” “The West Wing,” “Dallas,” “Hill Street Blues,” “Murder, She Wrote,” “Barnaby Jones,” and “Kojak.”
Robert Bower spoke about his brother’s career, describing him as “a devoted actor who brought a unique depth to every role he played.” He continued, “Tom’s work was his passion, and he poured his heart and soul into every performance.”
Colleagues and fans remember Bower for his versatile acting skills and his off-screen character. A former co-star stated, “Tom was one of the kindest, most generous actors I’ve worked with. He had a knack for making everyone around him feel comfortable and valued.”
As news of Bower’s death broke, tributes from the entertainment industry flooded in. Many emphasized his ability to infuse even minor roles with significant emotional depth. A statement from the Screen Actors Guild referred to him as “a stalwart of stage and screen who will be deeply missed.”
Bower also made substantial contributions to theater, having performed in over 80 theatrical productions and being a founding member of the Loretta Theater in Santa Monica, California. His commitment to his craft was apparent in his consistent work across various mediums, making a lasting impact on the industry.
The passing of Tom Bower signifies the end of a fruitful career that impacted many. His performances continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring his enduring legacy in the world of film and television.