The entertainment world is mourning the loss of David Harris, a talented actor cherished for his role in the 1979 cult classic The Warriors.
He passed away at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy that resonated with fans and filmmakers alike.
A Brave Fight
Harris’s daughter confirmed the news of his passing to the New York Times, sharing that he died on Friday at his home in New York City after a courageous battle with cancer.
Details about the specific type of cancer he faced remain unclear, but his struggle was well-known to his family and close friends.
An Iconic Role
Best known for his portrayal of Cochise, the cool and collected gang member in The Warriors, Harris captured the essence of the film’s gritty portrayal of gang turf wars in 1970s New York.
The film initially received mixed reviews but eventually garnered a dedicated fanbase, solidifying its place in cinematic history.
Launching a Career
David Harris’s role in The Warriors was a turning point in his career, coming just three years after he began acting.
Before that, he appeared in a made-for-TV drama and a stage play alongside Meryl Streep.
Despite the movie’s rocky start, it opened doors for Harris, leading to nearly a dozen film credits over the next decade.
Among his notable works was a role in the 1980 TV movie Attica, where he acted alongside Morgan Freeman.
He also made guest appearances on popular shows like MacGyver, Mike Hammer, Private Eye, and Profile.
Continued Success on TV
In the 2000s, Harris enjoyed a resurgence on television with memorable roles in ER, NYPD Blue, and Law & Order.
He even reprised his role as Cochise in the Warriors video games, showing his lasting connection to the character.
His journey came full circle when he featured in a 2015 documentary that examined the film’s cultural impact nearly four decades later.
Tributes from Peers
Following the announcement of his death, heartfelt tributes flooded in from fans and colleagues.
Lin-Manuel Miranda expressed his shock and sadness on Instagram, recalling how just over a week prior, they had celebrated Harris’s iconic performance.
He shared a recent photo with the actor, stating, “Grateful for that moment with him. Our hearts are with his daughter and galaxy of family and friends.”
Ava DuVernay also paid homage, writing, “Onward for him. May his journey be filled with light and love,” reflecting the sentiment shared by many who admired Harris’s contributions to film and television.
A Lasting Impact
Throughout his career, Harris remained proud of his work in The Warriors.
In a 2019 interview with the Hollywood Reporter, he recalled how people around the globe recognized him as “the guy from The Warriors.”
His ability to connect with fans at comic-cons and events across the country brought him joy, even as he transitioned away from acting.
Born on June 18, 1949, Harris leaves behind his daughter, mother, sister, two brothers, and two grandchildren.
His impact on the film industry will be felt for years to come, as he is remembered not just for his roles, but for the charisma and talent he brought to every performance.
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