T.K. Carter dead at 69: Tributes paid to actor after he was found dead at his home in California

Actor T.K. Carter has been found dead at his home in Duarte, California, at the age of 69. At the time of writing, no cause of death has been confirmed.

According to TMZ, “Carter was found deceased Friday in his Duarte, CA residence after a call for service was made. Law enforcement tells TMZ the call came in at approximately 5:42 PM, and a death report was made. No foul play is suspected.”

Musical group Full Force paid tribute to T.K.Carter on their Facebook page and wrote: “Rest in Peace to my friend T.K Carter who besides being an incredible actor with a versatile range,he was such a dope person with a great sense of humor. Also he loved his true skool music !!

“I last saw him last year 2025 in April & we last spoke just 3 weeks ago on his birthday Dec 18 a month ago when I asked him if he could make a funny All Star Birthday surprise video shout out for Bernadette Stanis aka Thelma of Good Times.

“TK appeared on Good Times as a character named "Head" who was JJ's pal & they with 2 other guys made up the Awesome 4some.

“He appeared in many tv shows and movies but more than that he was a good brother & good friend as we both kept in communication with each other.

“Rest in peace TK Carter,you will always live in our hearts. 12/18/56-1/9/26.”

DJ Envy wrote: “We’re saddened to hear that T.K. Carter has passed at the age 69. Sending love and condolences to his family & friends,” and Lane Strickland wrote: “My tribute to a Black actor that never was given his just due, and contributions that he provided to stage and screen, in every character he portrayed. A brilliant talent that a lot of folks slept on.

“His roles in John Carpenter's "THE THING" and his masterpiece role in HBO'S mini series "The Corner" ... This dude was the real deal!

“Mr. Thomas Kenter Carter better known by his stage name T.K. Carter Dec 18, 1956 - Jan 9. 2026 Rest in Peace Homie!”

Thomas Miles took to Instagram and wrote: “R.I.P. TK Carter

“If you don’t know... then let me say it.

“He was an AMAZING talent. His resume is extensive.

“Go all the way back to the Walton’s... and you will see TK as a kid.

“The mini series “THE CORNER”... OMG.

“R.I.P. my friend... it’s an honor to say I toured with you in the 90s.

“I’m grateful. 🙏🏽.”

T.K. Carter, who was born in New York City, but grew up outside of Los Angeles was only 12 when he began performing as a standup comedian. Although he is best known for his role as Nauls in The Thing, he also starred in two seasons of Punky Brewster.