T.K. Carter, a veteran actor with numerous TV and film credits, has passed away. He was 69.
The Associated Press reported that Carter was pronounced dead on Friday (Jan. 9) following law enforcement officers’ response to a call regarding an unresponsive male in Duarte, California.
No cause of death has been revealed, but police say no foul play was suspected.
Carter’s passing was confirmed by his publicist, Tony Freeman, in a statement.
“T.K. Carter was a consummate professional and a genuine soul whose talent transcended genres,” Freeman said. “He brought laughter, truth, and humanity to every role he touched. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists and fans alike.”
Born Thomas Kent Carter on December 18, 1956, he grew up in Southern California. At 12 years of age, he began performing stand-up comedy at the Comedy Store and other notable venues.
After getting his start in comedy, Carter made his onscreen debut in a 1976 episode of NBC’s Police Woman. Following years of acting, he landed his breakthrough role as Nauls in the 1982 horror classic, The Thing. He also had a recurring role in the 1980s sitcom Punky Brewster.
He went on to appear on Good Times, The Waltons, The Jeffersons, 227, Good Morning, Miss Bliss (Saved by the Bell: The Junior High Years), and Family Matters. Also, The Sinbad Show, Moesha, The Steve Harvey Show, The Nanny, and Dave. Carter also voiced roles in The Transformers and Jem.
On the big screen, Carter starred in Runaway Train in 1985, Ski Patrol in 1990, and Space Jam in 1996.
Jamie Foxx paid tribute to Carter in an Instagram post.
“Rest in power, King. You were an inspiration to me and a lot of other comedians,” Foxx wrote. “Please let us recognize TK Carter… a cornerstone of comedy…
Cedric the Entertainer also took to Instagram to offer his condolences.
“Rest in peace, TK. I just saw you a few weeks ago, damn! May your soul rest easy,” Cedric wrote.