Hollywood Mourns: Veteran Actor Harris Yulin Dies at 87

The entertainment world is grieving the loss of one of its most respected figures. Harris Yulin, the acclaimed actor whose commanding presence and versatile talent graced both stage and screen for decades, has died at the age of 87.

Yulin reportedly passed away from cardiac arrest at his home in New York City, surrounded by family. With a career that spanned more than half a century, his death marks the end of an era for countless fans, colleagues, and students who admired his work.

A Storied Career Across Stage and Screen

Though many remember him for his explosive role as Judge Wexler in Ghostbusters II, Harris Yulin’s body of work extended far beyond that cult classic. He delivered unforgettable performances in films such as Scarface, Training Day, and Clear and Present Danger, often portraying complex authority figures with an intensity that left a lasting impression.

Yulin was also a familiar face on television, with notable appearances in Frasier, Law & Order, 24, and more recently, Ozark, where he played the ominous Buddy Dieker — a role that introduced him to a new generation of fans.

His deep, gravelly voice, piercing eyes, and ability to command a scene made him a go-to character actor for decades, earning praise from directors and audiences alike.

A Master Teacher and Theater Luminary

Beyond film and TV, Yulin was a passionate advocate for theater and a longtime teacher at the prestigious Juilliard School. His dedication to the craft of acting inspired countless students, many of whom went on to become stars in their own right.

Director Michael Hoffman, who worked with Yulin on multiple projects, once called him “one of the greatest artists I’ve ever known — equally profound on stage or screen, and one of the finest human beings behind the scenes.”

Yulin’s stage credits include powerful performances in Shakespearean roles and contemporary dramas alike. Whether on Broadway or in intimate black-box theaters, his presence was magnetic.

Remembering the Man Behind the Roles

Away from the spotlight, Yulin was known for his sharp wit, love of literature, and fierce loyalty to friends and collaborators. He is survived by his wife, actress Kristen Lowman, and several close relatives who were by his side in his final days.

Tributes have already begun pouring in from across the entertainment industry, with fellow actors, directors, and fans honoring the memory of a man whose voice, vision, and values left an indelible mark.

A Legacy That Endures

While Harris Yulin may no longer be with us, his work continues to live on through the characters he brought to life and the students he mentored along the way. In a world that often forgets, his presence will be remembered — scene after scene, line after line, heart to heart.

Rest in peace, Mr. Yulin. Your art and spirit will never fade.