The Warriors star David Harris dies aged 75 after making his name in iconic 70s cult gang film

THE Warriors star David Harris has died aged 75 following a health battle.

Harris, one of the lead actors in the 1979 cult classic film, died on Friday at his New York City home.

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Actor David Harris died aged 75[/caption]

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The actor was known for his role in the cult favorite film The Warriors[/caption]

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Harris, pictured above in 2017, died at his New York City home on Friday[/caption]

The actor died after a battle with cancer, his daughter Davina Harris told The New York Times.

He was best known for playing a member of a street gang in the iconic 70s film.

In his role of Cochise, Harris defended his brothers as his Warriors gang battled rival crews in the New York City streets and trains.

Although the film initially struggled upon release, it later gained a global fanbase.

In a 2019 interview, Harris revealed that he did not know The Warriors would stand the test of time.

He said: “It wasn’t a typical gang movie.

“It was futuristic. It was like ‘The Seven Samurai.'”

He added: “It was based on a Greek army that was caught behind enemy lines, and they had to fight their way back all night to get back to their own line — it’s a true story.”

At the time, he also revealed that this film led to him being stopped and noticed by fans across the world.

He said: “I was in Hong Kong, I was in the Philippines, I was in Tokyo.

“I’ve done a lot of movies, but I get off the plane and people go, It’s the guy from â€˜The Warriors.’”

Harris also appeared in other films like the 2015 movie James White and on television programs like Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and NYPD Blue.

Hollywood stars paid their tributes to the late actor.

Lin-Manuel Miranda, who recently wrote a concept album based on The Warriors, posted a heartfelt messaged on Instagram.

Miranda wrote: “Shocked and saddened at the passing of David Harris, aka the original Cochise in The Warriors.”

“We were celebrating and giving him his flowers for his unforgettable performance just over a week ago. Grateful for that moment with him.

“Our hearts are with his daughter and galaxy of family and friends.”

Filmmaker Ava DuVernay also paid tribute to the late star in a post.

She wrote: “Onward for him. May his journey be filled with light and love.”

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