Jan Patrick “J.P.” Schwieterman, known for his role as antagonist Kurt Bozwell in Nickelodeon’s 1997 film “Good Burger,” passed away on February 28, 2025, in Washington, Missouri. He was 52.
His brother, Chad Schwieterman, confirmed the death on Facebook, stating, “It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my brother, Jan (JP) Schwieterman. He recently found out he had an aggressive form of stage 4 cancer.”
The family noted that Schwieterman’s death was unexpected due to the recent and rapid progression of his cancer diagnosis.
Born in Bluffton, Indiana, about 35 miles south of Fort Wayne, Schwieterman became an Eagle Scout before moving to Los Angeles to pursue acting after high school. He began his career with guest roles on television shows.
Schwieterman debuted on television in 1994, landing roles on ABC’s “McKenna” and NBC’s “ER,” where he played Daniel Quinn. His early TV appearances included roles on “Forever” and “Felicity,” portraying the character Lewis in its first season.
His major break came in 1997 as Kurt Bozwell, the owner of Mondo Burger, in “Good Burger.” The film featured Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell, with appearances by Sinbad and Shaquille O’Neal.
Schwieterman continued acting in films like “Warlock III: The End of Innocence” and “American Intellectuals,” as well as “Wasted” and MTV’s “Undressed.”
After a hiatus starting in 2000, he returned to acting in 2007 in “Along the Way,” his last film credit. He did not reprise his role in “Good Burger 2” in 2023.
Apart from acting, Schwieterman was passionate about travel and the arts. His obituary noted, “J.P. loved to travel. He has traveled to many countries throughout his life, most recently to Thailand. He was an artist of photography and painting. He studied martial arts and loved playing Dungeons and Dragons.”
He is remembered by friends and family for his varied interests and dedication to his passions.
Schwieterman is survived by his parents, Clara and LeeRoy Schwieterman, his brother Chad, sisters Megan and Vanessa, and various extended family members. A memorial was held on March 4, 2025.
The family requested donations to the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Texas instead of flowers. The institution is recognized for its cancer research and treatment.
Fans of “Good Burger” have expressed nostalgia for Schwieterman’s role as Kurt Bozwell, a memorable part of many childhoods. Though he left the industry later in life, his performance remains significant to many viewers.
