Joe Don Baker, Star of ‘Walking Tall’ and James Bond Films, Dies at 89

Veteran actor Joe Don Baker, best known for his iconic role in Walking Tall and memorable appearances in three James Bond films, passed away on May 7, 2025, at the age of 89, his family confirmed.

Baker left a lasting mark on Hollywood, playing both hero and villain in the Bond franchise. He portrayed arms dealer Brad Whitaker in The Living Daylights (1987), then returned as quirky CIA agent Jack Wade in GoldenEye (1995) and Tomorrow Never Dies (1997). He was one of only a few actors to appear as both an ally and adversary in the Bond universe.

Born on February 12, 1936, in Groesbeck, Texas, Baker played college football before serving in the U.S. Army. After his service, he pursued acting at New York’s prestigious Actor’s Studio and made his Broadway debut in the 1960s. Early TV roles included appearances on Gunsmoke and Mission: Impossible, setting the stage for a long and diverse film career.

His breakout role came in 1973, playing a no-nonsense sheriff in Walking Tall, a film that turned into a cult classic. Over the decades, Baker starred in 57 films, including Mitchell, Charlie Varrick, and Mud—the latter earning him a Robert Altman Award. He also received a BAFTA nomination for the British miniseries Edge of Darkness, and recognition for his role in George Wallace.

Baker retired from acting in 2012, stepping away from the spotlight but never from the hearts of fans. Known for his gentle spirit, love of nature, and affection for cats, he never married or had children but remained close with his extended family in Texas and a circle of lifelong friends.

A funeral service will be held on May 20, 2025, at Utter McKinley Mortuary in Mission Hills, California.