T.K. Carter, 'The Thing' Actor, Dies at 69

Thomas Kent "T.K." Carter, the actor best known for his role as the rollerskating chef Nauls in John Carpenter's 1982 horror classic The Thing, has died at age 69. He was found dead on Friday in his home in Duarte, California, following a 911 call placed around 5:42 p.m., authorities reported. No foul play is suspected, though the cause of death has not been disclosed.

Carter's passing was confirmed through local emergency response records, with officers arriving at the residence shortly after the call. The actor, whose full name was Thomas Kent Carter, leaves behind a legacy of versatile performances across film and television spanning nearly five decades.

Born on December 18, 1956, in New York City, Carter moved with his family to Southern California's San Gabriel Valley during his childhood. He began his entertainment career as a stand-up comedian at age 12, performing at venues like the Comedy Store before transitioning to acting. His onscreen debut came in 1976 with a guest role in an episode of NBC's Police Woman, starring Angie Dickinson.

Carter's early work included appearances on popular shows such as Good Times, The Waltons, The Jeffersons, Quincy M.E., and 227. He...