Thomas Kent “T.K.” Carter, the talented actor celebrated for his performances in iconic films and television series, has passed away at the age of 69. His body was discovered on Friday at his residence in Duarte, California. According to reports, Carter made a 911 call at 5:42 PM, but emergency responders found him unresponsive. At this time, authorities do not suspect foul play.
Early Life and Career
Carter was born on December 18, 1956, in New York City. He spent much of his childhood in the Los Angeles area, where his passion for performing ignited at an early age. At just 12 years old, he began his career as a stand-up comedian, showcasing his talent at notable venues like the Comedy Store.
Notable Film and TV Roles
Carter gained prominence for his role as Nauls, the rollerskating chef, in John Carpenter’s horror classic, The Thing, released in 1982. He also played Mike Fulton in the beloved television series Punky Brewster during its initial two seasons from 1985 to 1986.
Television Appearances
His acting journey began in 1976 with an appearance on NBC’s Police Woman. Throughout the years, he featured in several popular television shows, including:
- Good Times
- The Waltons
- The Jeffersons
- Just Our Luck
- 227
- Good Morning, Miss Bliss (part of the Saved by the Bell franchise)
- Family Matters
- The Sinbad Show
- Moesha
- The Steve Harvey Show
- The Nanny
- Dave
Voice Work and Filmography
In addition to his on-screen work, Carter lent his voice to animated series like The Transformers and Jem. His film credits include:
- Seems Like Old Times (1980)
- Southern Comfort (1981)
- Doctor Detroit (1983)
- Ski Patrol (1990)
- Space Jam (1996)
- My Favorite Martian (1999)
Carter’s contributions to the entertainment industry have left a lasting impression. His unique blend of humor and versatility will be missed by fans and colleagues alike.
