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

Joe Don Baker, the tough-as-nails actor who became a symbol of 1970s American grit, has passed away at the age of 89. Best known for his breakout role as Sheriff Buford Pusser in Walking Tall and for playing both a villain and an ally in the James Bond franchise, Baker built a career on rugged charm, raw talent, and quiet intensity.

He died on May 7, 2025, from lung cancer at an assisted living facility in Los Angeles. His passing was confirmed by a former brother-in-law and made public on May 15.

From Texas Roots to Hollywood Fame

Born in Groesbeck, Texas in 1936, Baker’s early life was a far cry from the red carpets of Hollywood. He played college football at North Texas State, served in the Army, and eventually moved to New York to pursue acting. He trained at the Actors Studio, where he developed his signature style—subtle, powerful, and unmistakably real.

He cited Hollywood legends Robert Mitchum and Spencer Tracy as major influences, and fittingly, later shared the screen with Mitchum in Cape Fear.

‘Walking Tall’ Made Him a Star

Baker shot to stardom in 1973 with Walking Tall, portraying real-life Tennessee sheriff Buford Pusser—a bat-wielding lawman fighting corruption. The film, released with the bold tagline “When was the last time you stood up and applauded a movie?”, became a surprise box office hit and turned Baker into a folk hero.

The film’s impact reached far beyond Hollywood. Baker once recalled, “After it had a run in Thailand for six months, guess what? One hundred thousand students and farmers picked up sticks, pitchforks, and guns to overthrow the damn rip-off government.”

A Career Built on Grit and Authenticity

Over the next 40 years, Baker became one of Hollywood’s go-to tough guys. He appeared in more than 50 films, including Charley Varrick, Mitchell, Cape Fear, Mars Attacks!, and Reality Bites. While he often played the heavy, his performances brought unexpected depth and humanity to every role.

His final major film appearance came in 2012’s Mud alongside Matthew McConaughey, a performance that earned him a Robert Altman Award.

A Unique Legacy in the James Bond Universe

Baker made Bond history by playing both a villain and a good guy in the long-running franchise. In 1987, he appeared as arms dealer Brad Whitaker in The Living Daylights. A few years later, he returned as CIA agent Jack Wade in GoldenEye and Tomorrow Never Dies. It’s a rare feat—proof of his range and undeniable presence on screen.

More Than Just a Tough Guy

Behind the steely exterior, friends and colleagues described Baker as thoughtful, gentle, and deeply private. He loved the outdoors, books, and his cats. In a 1992 interview, he reflected on his work ethic and quiet approach to fame:

“They don’t think big guys like us are romantic or anything. You do the best you can as well as you can ’cause you want to be hired again. They like it so they hire you again.”

On the small screen, he earned acclaim as CIA agent Darius Jedburgh in the British miniseries Edge of Darkness, a role that brought him a BAFTA nomination and international recognition.

Personal Life and Final Days

Baker was married to Maria Dolores Rivero-Torres from 1969 to 1980. Though he had no children, he stayed close to his family in Texas throughout his life.

From small-town beginnings to global recognition, Joe Don Baker’s career was built on honesty, grit, and unforgettable performances. Whether swinging a bat in Walking Tall or standing toe-to-toe with James Bond, he left a mark that won’t be forgotten.

Rest in peace, Joe Don. Thanks for the memories.