Joe Don Baker, ‘Walking Tall’ Star and James Bond Veteran, Dies at 89
Joe Don Baker, the rugged screen presence who embodied the grit and justice of 1970s American cinema, has died at the age of 89. Known for his iconic portrayal of no-nonsense sheriff Buford Pusser in Walking Tall and for his rare double role in the James Bond universe—as both villain and ally—Baker leaves behind a legacy of toughness, talent, and quiet charisma.
Baker passed away on May 7, 2025, from lung cancer at an assisted living facility in Los Angeles. His death, confirmed by a former brother-in-law to The Washington Post, wasn’t publicly announced until May 15.