James Handy remembered as ‘very humble and kind’ by neighbour following actor’s death

Veteran actor James Handy is being remembered for his kindness and humility by those who knew him, as tributes continue to emerge following his death at the age of 81.

In an interview with People, a neighbour of Handy’s longtime girlfriend, Linda Morse, described the late actor as a warm and gracious presence who left a lasting impression on those around him.

“He was very humble and kind,” the neighbour said, recalling Handy as someone who was friendly with everyone he met and never carried himself like a Hollywood actor despite a career that spanned decades.

Handy, whose extensive résumé included roles in Top Gun: Maverick, Jumanji, The Rocketeer, Logan and countless television series, died on 2 June. Authorities have charged Morse’s son, Aaron Morse, in connection with the actor’s death.

According to the neighbour, Handy spent significant time at Linda Morse’s home and was a familiar figure in the community. The neighbour said he often saw the actor walking around the neighbourhood and interacting warmly with residents.

“He was just a really nice guy,” the neighbour told People, adding that Handy appeared devoted to Morse and enjoyed a quiet life away from Hollywood's spotlight.

The neighbour also spoke about the shock felt throughout the community following the actor’s death, describing the incident as difficult to comprehend given Handy’s gentle nature and the peaceful atmosphere of the neighbourhood.

Handy built a career as one of Hollywood’s most respected character actors, appearing in more than 170 film and television productions over nearly five decades. Although rarely a leading man, he became known for his versatility and reliability, earning roles in projects ranging from The X-Files and NYPD Blue to Criminal Minds and The West Wing.

One of his final screen appearances came in 2022’s blockbuster Top Gun: Maverick, where he played bartender Jimmy opposite Jennifer Connelly.

As investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death continue, friends, colleagues and neighbours have increasingly focused on the life Handy lived rather than the tragedy that ended it.