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David Harris (CBS via Getty Images)

David Harris (1949–2024), played Cochise in The Warriors

by Linnea Crowther

David Harris was an actor best known for his performance as gang member Cochise in the cult classic 1979 film “The Warriors.” 

David Harris’ legacy 

“The Warriors” was Harris’ film debut, and he got the role in part because he was a native of New York City. The movie, following the exploits of a gang as they navigate NYC and fight with costumed rival crews, was cast with area actors to add to its atmosphere. The movie wasn’t a critical success, but it was popular with audiences and became a cult favorite. Harris returned to his role years later when he voiced Cochise in a 2005 video game adaptation of “The Warriors.” 

After “The Warriors,” Harris had frequent TV roles, appearing on such shows as “Hill Street Blues,” “In the Heat of the Night,” “ER,” “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” and “First Wives Club.” He had a recurring role on “NYPD Blue” as Officer Donnie Simmons. Harris also returned to the big screen in such movies as “Brubaker,” “A Soldier’s Story,” and “Fatal Beauty.” 

Notable quote 

“It feels great to know that you’re a part of some film that’s history. Certain actors are blessed enough to get in a film that is just iconic and people are going to talk about for the next thousand years.” – from a 2014 interview on “The Five Count” 

Tributes to David Harris 

Full obituary: The New York Times 

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