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

Joe Don Baker, best known for his role in Walking Tall and appearances in the James Bond franchise, died on May 7, 2025, at age 89 from lung cancer. He passed away in an assisted living facility in Los Angeles. His death was confirmed by a former brother-in-law and announced publicly on May 15.

From Texas to Hollywood

Born in 1936 in Groesbeck, Texas, Baker’s journey began far from the spotlight. After playing football and serving in the Army, he studied acting in New York at the Actors Studio. Influenced by stars like Robert Mitchum and Spencer Tracy, Baker built a career defined by subtle strength and authenticity.

Breakthrough with ‘Walking Tall’

Baker’s big break came in 1973, playing sheriff Buford Pusser in Walking Tall, a gritty drama that made him a star. The film’s tagline asked, “When was the last time you stood up and applauded a movie?” and audiences responded. Baker once claimed, “After it had a run in Thailand for six months… One hundred thousand students and farmers picked up sticks, pitchforks, and guns to overthrow the damn rip-off government.”

A Bond Veteran and Screen Tough Guy

Baker played both villain and ally in the James Bond series—first as arms dealer Brad Whitaker in The Living Daylights, then as CIA agent Jack Wade in GoldenEye and Tomorrow Never Dies. Few actors have crossed that Bond line.

Known for over 50 roles, including Mitchell, Cape Fear, and Mud, Baker brought depth to every performance. Off-screen, he loved nature, books, and cats. “They don’t think big guys like us are romantic or anything,” he said in 1992.

Baker is remembered as a rugged actor with heart—grounded, memorable, and truly one of a kind.