‘The Thing’ and ‘Space Jam’ Actor T.K. Carter Dies at 69
Actor T.K. Carter never became a household name during his Hollywood career that lasted for decades. What he did do, however, was star in several projects that have left a huge mark on pop culture history and provided millions of fans with hours of entertainment.
Sadly for fans who were deeply invested in the movies and TV shows that Carter played a pivotal role in, the actor has passed away far too early in life.
What Is Known About T.K. Carter’s Death
On January 10th, 2026, The Associated Press reported on the passing of the veteran character actor T.K. Carter. The outlet's article stated that Carter had passed away at just 69 years old. The article went on to state that the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department had revealed that Carter was declared dead after a call about an unresponsive male was received in Duarte, California. While Carter's cause of death wasn't revealed, the Police stated that no foul play was suspected. On the same date, The Hollywood Reporter published an article on Carter's death, which stated the actor passed away in his own home.
The same report from The Hollywood Reporter quoted Carter's publicist, Tony Freeman, who released a statement on the actor's passing. “T.K. Carter was a consummate professional and a genuine soul whose talent transcended genres. He brought laughter, truth and humanity to every role he touched. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists and fans alike.” The Hollywood Reporter also reported that Carter was born on December 18th, 1956, in New York City and then grew up in California's San Gabriel Valley.
T.K. Carter's Hollywood Career Left a Mark on Many Fans
After T.K. Carter launched his career as a comedian, he became a successful actor who consistently landed roles for decades. For many fans, Carter is still best known for his breakthrough acting role as the cook Nauls from The Thing. A movie that has millions of devoted fans, The Thing arguably is one of the most respected horror movies ever made. The fact that the users of the underrated website Flickchart have ranked The Thing as the 8th best horror movie ever made is evidence of that. It is also worth noting that a writer for RogerEbert.com, Wael Khairy, wrote an article in October 2020 that named The Thing as "one of the most effective horror movies ever made."
While his role in The Thing is widely celebrated, that is far from the only notable movie Carter was a part of. For example, Carter also voiced Monstar Nawt in 1996's Space Jam. Carter's other movies include Runaway Train, My Favorite Martian, Domino, and more. In addition to being part of many movies, Carter had memorable roles in notable TV successes, like when he starred in two seasons of Punky Brewster in the mid-1980s as an elementary school teacher. Another notable role Carter landed was as a maintenance worker in Good Morning, Miss Bliss, the show that was a precursor to Saved by the Bell. Carter's other TV credits include The Corner, The Sinbad Show, and one-episode appearances in a very long list of beloved sitcoms and drama series.