Beloved character actor TK Carter, best known for his role as Nauls in John Carpenter’s 1982 sci-fi horror classic the thing is dead.
He was 69.
As reported by TMZ, police confirmed that Carter was found at his home in Duarte, California, on Friday evening, January 9, following a welfare check.
However, there is no sign of any foul play.
An official cause of death has not been released.
The actor’s career has spanned nearly five decades and highlights his versatility across film and television.
His breakout role came as the resourceful chef Nauls The thingstarring opposite Kurt Russell. He became a household name as teacher Mike Fulton on the hit sitcom Punky Brewster and later as T-Bone on The Steve Harvey Show.
With his passing comes an immediate outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues online, who remembered him for his memorable performances and enduring screen presence.
He is survived by his wife, Janet Carter.
