Joe Don Baker - Buford Pusser in Walking Tall

Joe Don Baker (Deceased) was an American actor known for his rugged screen presence and memorable roles in crime films, action movies, and television. Born February 12, 1936, in Groesbeck, Texas, Baker gained national attention portraying real-life Tennessee sheriff Buford Pusser in the 1973 film "Walking Tall." The role became one of his most famous performances and established him as a powerful leading man of 1970s cinema. Baker also appeared in "Charley Varrick," "The Natural," "Fletch," "Cape Fear," and the cult action film "Mitchell." James Bond fans remember him for playing villain Brad Whitaker in "The Living Daylights" and CIA agent Jack Wade in both "GoldenEye" and "Tomorrow Never Dies." His television work included the acclaimed British miniseries "Edge of Darkness," along with numerous guest appearances throughout his long career. Joe Don Baker died on May 7, 2025, at age 89. His association with "Walking Tall," the James Bond franchise, classic crime films, and action cinema makes his autograph especially appealing to collectors of Hollywood and movie memorabilia.