T.K. Carter, the talented actor famed for his role as Nauls in John Carpenter’s 1982 film “The Thing,” has passed away at the age of 69. Authorities discovered Carter’s body at his home in Duarte, California, after a call for assistance was made on January 6, 2026, around 5:42 PM. The local law enforcement reported that no foul play is suspected, though the exact cause of death remains undisclosed.
Career Highlights of T.K. Carter
Carter’s acting career spanned several decades, beginning in the mid-1970s. His portrayal in “The Thing” marked a pivotal moment in his professional journey. In addition to this iconic role, Carter appeared in numerous other films, including:
- 1985’s “Runaway Train”
- 1996’s “Space Jam”
- 2005’s “Domino”
Television Appearances
T.K. Carter also made significant contributions to television. Notably, he played Mike Fulton in over 24 episodes of the beloved series “Punky Brewster” during the 1980s. In the 1990s, he was well-known for his role as T-Bone on “The Steve Harvey Show.” Additionally, he starred in the 2000 miniseries “The Corner,” a project he discussed in August 2025 on “Live from the Green Room.”
Carter shared that it was challenging to secure an audition for “The Corner” until a close friend introduced him to their manager, leading to a breakthrough opportunity.
Recent Projects
In the final years of his career, T.K. Carter appeared in three episodes of “The Company You Keep” and five episodes of “Dave,” a comedy series featuring Lil Dicky, in 2023. His contributions to both film and television have left an enduring legacy.
The entertainment industry mourns the loss of T.K. Carter, remembering him both for his versatile talent and for the joy he brought to audiences around the world. Rest in peace, T.K. Carter.
