Joe Don Baker, known for his iconic role as Sheriff Buford Pusser in Walking Tall and appearances in James Bond films, has passed away at 89. A look back at his legendary career.
Hollywood is mourning the loss of Joe Don Baker, the rugged leading man best known for his portrayal of real-life Sheriff Buford Pusser in the 1973 box-office hit Walking Tall. Baker’s family confirmed that he passed away at the age of 89 on May 7, according to Deadline. The cause of death has not been made public.
Born in 1936 in Groesbeck, Texas, Baker faced tragedy early in life when his mother died at age 12. Raised by his aunt, he went on to earn a business degree from North Texas State College in 1958 after receiving a sports scholarship. Following two years in the U.S. Army, he pursued acting at New York City’s Actors Studio, laying the foundation for a career that would span decades.
Baker’s big break came in Walking Tall (1973), where he brought Sheriff Pusser’s relentless pursuit of justice to the screen—complete with a now-famous wooden club. The film’s success cemented his reputation as a “tough guy” actor.
Over the years, he displayed his range in films like Charley Varrick (1973), Mitchell (1975), The Natural (1984), Fletch (1985), and Martin Scorsese’s Cape Fear (1991). He also made his mark in the James Bond franchise, appearing in The Living Daylights (1987) and GoldenEye (1995).
Baker began his career on stage and in television, with guest spots in classics like Bonanza and Gunsmoke. His film debut came with a small role in Cool Hand Luke (1967), followed by memorable parts in Westerns such as Guns of the Magnificent Seven (1969) and Wild Rovers (1971).
With a career defined by commanding performances and a screen presence that was both tough and charismatic, Joe Don Baker leaves behind a legacy cherished by fans of action, drama, and classic Hollywood storytelling.