When Bill Paxton suddenly died over four years ago, he left one heck of a legacy behind with memorable roles in films, including Twister, Titanic, and Aliens, and his Emmy-winning rendition of Randolph "Randall" McCoy in Hatfields and McCoys.
Bill, who was starring in Training Day at the time of his passing, also left behind a familial legacy with his two children, James Paxton and Lydia Paxton, who the 61-year-old actor shared with wife Louise Newbury, who he was married to for 30 years.
Bill Paxton Worked Alongside Son James In ‘Texas Rising’
Prior to the death of his father, James, now 27, worked alongside Bill in the miniseries Texas Rising. And, amid a number of other appearances, he decided that he wanted to follow in his dad’s footsteps with a career in Hollywood.
Luckily, despite knowing both the bad and the good sides of having a career in the world of entertainment, Bill made it clear to James before his passing that he supported him in all of his future ventures.
During an interview with Entertainment Weekly in October 2016, James said his father always encouraged him to follow his dreams.
Bill Paxton Offered A Warning To Son James
"He never discouraged me from the business, but kind of warned me and said, ‘You know, you might want to reconsider. It’s a hard, hard life and a hard business to crack,’" James recalled of his father’s wise words.
James also said his dad was thrilled when he landed a role in USA’s Eyewitness.
"He always knew I could do it. But he couldn’t believe it at first. He was so over the moon. It was such a great feeling, I almost cried," he recalled.
Lydia Paxton Has Not Pursued An Acting Career
Just last year, James continued his acting career with roles in films, including The Uncanny and All-In, and television appearances in Teenage Bad-ss and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D..
Meanwhile, James’ sister, Lydia Paxton, now 23, appears to be a recent graduated of Duke University. According to a report from Heavy years ago, Lydia’s Instagram page confirmed she was expecting to graduate in 2020.
In an interview with Los Angeles Magazine in February 2010, Bill described Lydia as "flamboyant and dramatic” like her mother.
Bill Paxton Died Of A Stroke In February 2017
According to a report from TMZ, Bill died suddenly in February 2017 after experiencing complications from a heart surgery that resulted in a fatal stroke.
"It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed away due to complications from surgery," Bill’s family said in a statement at the time, giving nod to his "illustrious career spanning four decades as a beloved and prolific actor and filmmaker."
"Bill’s passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable," the statement continued.
