T.K. Carter, the versatile character actor best known for his role as the roller-skating chef in John Carpenter’s horror classic “The Thing” and his recurring role on the 1980s sitcom “Punky Brewster,” has died at 69.
Carter was found dead at his home in Duarte, California, on January 9, 2026, according to his publicist Tony Freeman. No foul play is suspected, though the cause of death has not been disclosed.
“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.”
Born Thomas Kent Carter on December 18, 1956, in New York City, the actor was raised in Southern California’s San Gabriel Valley. He began his entertainment career in stand-up comedy before transitioning to acting, making his professional acting debut in 1976 on the series “Police Woman.”
Carter’s early television work included guest appearances on popular series such as “Good Times” and “Quincy, M.E.,” helping him establish a foothold in Hollywood during the late 1970s. His ability to seamlessly shift between comedy and drama made him a sought-after character actor as the 1980s dawned.
The actor’s breakthrough came in 1982 when director John Carpenter cast him as Nauls, a roller-skating chef, in “The Thing.” The film initially received mixed reviews and modest box office returns. However, it has since achieved cult classic status and is now regarded as one of the finest horror films of the 1980s, with Carter’s performance as part of an ensemble cast contributing to its enduring appeal.
Following his success in “The Thing,” Carter landed a recurring role as Mike Fulton on the sitcom “Punky Brewster,” appearing in 24 episodes from 1985 to 1986. The show, which centered on a young girl being raised by a foster parent, became one of the decade’s beloved family sitcoms, and Carter’s character provided warmth and humor as a friend to the main characters.
Carter’s television career continued to flourish throughout the 1990s. From 1993 to 1994, he played Clarence Hull on “The Sinbad Show,” appearing alongside comedian Sinbad. The sitcom showcased Carter’s comedic timing and ability to work within ensemble casts.
In 1996, Carter lent his voice to the character Monstar Nawt in “Space Jam,” the live-action and animated hybrid film that became a cultural phenomenon. The movie introduced Carter’s work to a new generation of audiences and demonstrated his versatility as a voice actor.
Carter’s career extended well into the 21st century, with appearances on numerous television series including “The Steve Harvey Show.” In 2001, he received recognition for his dramatic abilities when he earned an NAACP Image Award nomination for his performance in “The Corner,” a miniseries.
His later film work included a role in “The Way Back” in 2020, starring Ben Affleck. The film showcased Carter’s continued ability to deliver compelling performances alongside major Hollywood stars, even as he entered his seventh decade.
Carter remained active in television throughout the early 2020s, with appearances on the comedy series “Dave” and the crime drama “The Company You Keep.” His last on-screen appearance came in 2023, marking the end of a career that touched multiple generations of television and film audiences.
Throughout his career, Carter maintained a presence in both comedic and dramatic roles, demonstrating a range that allowed him to work consistently across genres. His background in stand-up comedy informed his timing and delivery, even in dramatic roles, while his ability to convey genuine emotion made him effective in more serious material.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that Carter was found at his residence in Duarte, a city located in the San Gabriel Valley of Southern California.
News of Carter’s death prompted tributes from colleagues and fans across the entertainment industry. Comedian and television host Loni Love expressed her condolences on social media.
Carter is survived by his mother and children. His publicist’s statement emphasized the breadth of his contributions to entertainment, noting that his legacy would continue to inspire both artists and fans. The actor’s work across television sitcoms, horror films, animated features, and dramatic series demonstrated a versatility that defined character acting at its best.
