Jamie Foxx pays tribute to veteran actor T.K. Carter, who died at the age of 69 in Duarte, California, on January 8. Carter, celebrated for memorable roles across film and television, leaves behind a storied legacy admired by peers and fans alike.
T.K. Carter’s Career and Influence in Hollywood
Thomas Kent Carter, widely known in the entertainment industry as T.K. Carter, was found deceased at his home in Duarte, California, according to law enforcement statements. Officers responded to a call on Friday evening and subsequently filed a death report, with authorities confirming that no foul play is suspected. The specific cause of death has not been disclosed.
Carter, born and raised in the United States, established a career spanning nearly five decades. He began working steadily in Hollywood in the mid-1970s, earning recognition through dedication rather than publicity. Carter carved out a distinctive space in both film and television, contributing to projects that shaped multiple generations of entertainment.
He became a fixture in the genre of science-fiction horror with his breakthrough role as Nauls in The Thing, a performance anchoring the film’s enduring popularity and critical acclaim. Carter’s versatile talent shone through in subsequent roles in Runaway Train (1985), Space Jam (1996), and Domino (2005), each illustrating his adaptability and depth as an actor.
Television Achievements and Continuing Presence
Carter’s talents extended to television, where he became known as Mike Fulton on Punky Brewster, appearing in dozens of episodes throughout the 1980s. He connected with a 1990s audience as T-Bone on The Steve Harvey Show, broadening his impact among different demographics. In 2000, Carter took on a significant part in HBO’s award-winning miniseries The Corner, a role he later described as a turning point in his career during a 2025 interview: achieving the audition required both perseverance and support from a close friend.
Even in recent years, Carter remained a visible presence on television. In 2023, he appeared in episodes of The Company You Keep and Lil Dicky’s series Dave, reminding both colleagues and audiences of his enduring contributions and consistent work ethic.
Tributes from Jamie Foxx and the Entertainment Community
News of T.K. Carter’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes throughout the entertainment industry. Jamie Foxx honored Carter on January 10, 2026, with a heartfelt Facebook message:
“You were an inspiration to me and a lot of other comedians.”
— Jamie Foxx, Actor
Foxx urged the community to celebrate Carter’s lasting legacy, writing:
“Please let us recognize T.K. Carter… a cornerstone of comedy.”
— Jamie Foxx, Actor
Those sentiments resonated across social media, as fellow professionals and longtime fans recalled Carter’s warmth, generosity, and resilience in a difficult business. Carter’s journey was not straightforward, but he earned the respect of his peers and a dedicated fanbase.
The Enduring Legacy of T.K. Carter
The life and career of T.K. Carter underscore his remarkable range and lasting influence within entertainment. Carter’s film and television work continues to inspire actors throughout Hollywood, and Jamie Foxx’s tribute emphasizes the enduring respect felt for Carter’s achievements. As audiences revisit Carter’s memorable performances, his legacy endures—impacting both those who knew him personally and the countless viewers moved by his talent on screen.
