At a Glance
- Veteran actor T.K. Carter has died at 69
- Known for The Thing and Punky Brewster
- No foul play suspected
- Why it matters: Carter’s roles defined 80s horror and sitcoms
Veteran actor T.K. Carter has died at age 69, leaving behind a legacy of memorable roles in horror and comedy that shaped 1980s entertainment.
His Most Famous Roles
Carter portrayed Nauls the cook in the 1982 John Carpenter classic The Thing, a role that became iconic in horror cinema. He also had a recurring role in the beloved sitcom Punky Brewster
Other notable performances include:
- Runaway Train (1985)
- Ski Patrol (1990)
- Space Jam (1996)
His Final Days
Carter passed away Friday evening after authorities responded to a call in Duarte, California. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department confirmed no foul play is suspected in his death.

Key Takeaways
- Carter’s role as Nauls remains unforgettable
- His work bridged horror and comedy
- His influence spans decades of entertainment
The entertainment world mourns a character actor whose unique presence left lasting impressions across multiple genres.

