Actor TK Carter arrives for the premiere of “The LA Riot” at the Tribeca Film Festival, Monday, April 25, 2005, in New York.
Mary Altaffer/AP
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Mary Altaffer/AP
DUARTE, Calif. — Veteran actor T.K. Carter, known for his roles in “The Thing” and “Punky Brewster,” has passed away at the age of 69.
Carter was found unresponsive in Duarte, California, and was pronounced dead by authorities from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
No foul play is suspected, but the cause of death has not been disclosed.
Born in New York City in 1956, Thomas Kent “T.K.” Carter began his career in comedy before transitioning to acting. He gained recognition for his role in the 1982 film “The Thing” and the 1980s sitcom “Punky Brewster.”
His other notable film credits include “Runaway Train” (1985), “Ski Patrol” (1990), and “Space Jam” (1996).
“T.K. Carter was a talented and versatile actor who brought humor and humanity to every role he played,” said his publicist, Tony Freeman. “His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists and fans.”

