It’s been an incredibly emotional and heavy week for comedian Chris Tucker, who is grieving the loss of his close friend Thomas Kent Carter, widely known as T.K. Carter.
The beloved actor passed away on 9 January, 2026, at his home in Duarte, California, following health complications. He was 69 years old.
T.K. Carter was a familiar and respected face in Hollywood. Born on 18 December, 1956, he built a memorable career with standout roles in films such as Corvette Summer, Southern Comfort, The Thing, and Doctor Detroit, among many others that cemented his place in movie history.
News of his passing has left fans stunned and heartbroken, with many still struggling to process the loss. Since the announcement, an outpouring of love, prayers, and moving condolences has flooded social media, as friends, colleagues, and fans rally around his family during this difficult time.
Tucker remembers Carter
Taking a walk down memory lane, Chris Tucker took to his Instagram page to lovingly reflect on the kind of friend and person T.K. Carter was. In a brief but touching message, the comedian remembered Carter with warmth, gratitude, and deep respect.
Tucker also highlighted the lasting impact Carter had on his life and career, especially behind the scenes, where his influence helped shape Tucker’s journey as a stand-up comic and actor.
Here’s how Chris Tucker remembered his late friend in his own words:
“My brother TK Carter…If I was Ali, he was my Bundini Brown. He was always rooting for me as a stand-up comic and an actor. He also wrote a lot of punch up jokes for me for Rush hour 1 and 2. TK had a brilliant comedy mind and was one of the funniest brothers I ever met in my life! He will truly be missed!
Sending my LOVE and PRAYERS out to his FAMILY. Rest in Peace, My friend. (Rumble young man Rumble!!,” wrote Tucker.
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