Hollywood tough guy Joe Don Baker pa.ss.es away at 89

While often cast as the heavy, those who knew Baker described him as warm-hearted and deeply generous. His obituary calls him “a beacon of kindness,” noting his love for books, the outdoors, and especially his fondness for cats.

In a 1992 interview, he reflected on the challenges of typecasting: “They don’t think big guys like us are romantic, or funny. But you do the best work you can so they’ll want to hire you again.”

His final film role was in Mud (2012), where he acted alongside Matthew McConaughey. The film earned the Robert Altman Award, and Baker quietly stepped away from acting afterward.

Baker was married to Maria Dolores Rivero-Torres from 1969 until their divorce in 1980. They had no children. He is survived by relatives in his Texas hometown.

His Final Days

Joe Don Baker pa.ss.ed away from lung can.cer on May 7, 2025, in a Los Angeles assisted living facility, according to a former brother-in-law who spoke with The Washington Post. News of his death was made public on May 15.

From small-town Texas to the global stage of Bond and beyond, Baker crafted a career defined by grit, depth, and authenticity. He may be gone, but his impact remains — rest in peace, Joe Don Baker.