Sonny Landham was an American actor and politician, best known for his roles in iconic action films such as Predator (1987) and 48 Hrs. (1982). Born on February 11, 1941, in Canton, Georgia, Landham’s career spanned over four decades, during which he became a familiar face in Hollywood’s action genre. His imposing physique, deep voice, and portrayal of Native American characters made him a standout in numerous films. Beyond his acting career, Landham also ventured into politics, running for public office in Kentucky. He passed away on August 17, 2017, in Lexington, Kentucky, at the age of 76 due to congestive heart failure.
Early Life and Education
Landham was born William M. Landham in Canton, Georgia. He was of Cherokee and Seminole descent, with additional German, English, and Irish heritage. Raised in Rome, Georgia, he attended Saint Mary’s Catholic School and Darlington School. He briefly played football at the University of Georgia before transferring to Oglethorpe University, where he graduated. After college, Landham served in the U.S. Army, worked in an oil field, and pursued careers as an ordained Baptist minister and a model before entering the entertainment industry.
Entry into Acting
Landham began his acting career in the late 1960s, initially appearing in adult films to support himself financially. He later transitioned to mainstream cinema, leveraging his physical presence and distinctive voice. His breakthrough came with the 1979 film The Warriors, where he portrayed a police officer. This role opened doors for more significant parts in Hollywood action films.
Notable Film Roles
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Landham appeared in several high-profile action films
- 48 Hrs. (1982)– Landham played Billy Bear, a Native American criminal, alongside Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte.
- Predator (1987)– He portrayed Billy Sole, a Native American tracker, in this sci-fi action classic starring Arnold Schwarzenegger.
- Lock Up (1989)– Landham appeared as Chink Weber, a fellow inmate in a high-security prison.
- Action Jackson (1988)– He played a corrupt businessman in this action-packed film.
- The Warriors (1979)– Landham had a supporting role as a police officer in this cult classic.
These roles showcased his versatility and solidified his status as a reliable character actor in the action genre.
Political Involvement
In 2003, Landham entered the political arena, running for the Republican nomination for Governor of Kentucky. His campaign focused on issues related to family courts, drawing from his personal experiences. Although he did not secure the nomination, Landham’s foray into politics highlighted his willingness to engage in public service and advocacy.
Personal Life
Landham was married twice and had two children, a son named William and a daughter named Priscilla. His personal life was marked by legal challenges, including a conviction for making threatening phone calls to his wife. However, the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals later reversed this conviction in 2001.
Later Years and Legacy
In his later years, Landham faced health issues, including the amputation of both legs following a car accident in 2006. Despite these challenges, he remained active in the entertainment community and continued to make public appearances. His death in 2017 marked the end of a notable career in both film and public service.
Sonny Landham’s legacy endures through his memorable performances in action films and his brief yet impactful political career. He remains a respected figure among fans of 1980s action cinema.