The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Harris Yulin, whose career spanned over six decades across film, television, and theater. He was a respected stage performer and director who left an indelible mark on American entertainment through his distinctive character portrayals and commitment to his craft. What was Yulin’s breakthrough moment?
A Distinguished Career Across Film and Television
Harris Yulin, the Emmy-nominated actor known for his diverse roles across multiple decades, has passed away at 87 due to cardiac arrest in New York City. His extensive career included notable performances in films such as “Scarface,” “Clear and Present Danger,” and “Training Day,” where his commanding presence made even supporting roles memorable.
On television, Yulin earned recognition for his guest appearances on “Frasier,” which garnered him an Emmy nomination in 1996, and more recently captivated audiences in Netflix’s “Ozark” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.” Born in Los Angeles on November 5, 1937, Yulin found inspiration to pursue acting during his bar mitzvah, which he later described as a “life-changing” experience that set him on his artistic path.
We’re saddened to share the news of the passing of acclaimed actor Harris Yulin, who died June 10 in New York City at the age of 87.
For Ghostbusters fans, Yulin is remembered for portraying the no-nonsense Judge Stephen Wexler, aka “The Hammer,” in Ghostbusters II.
Across his… pic.twitter.com/YX3Z91KpM0
— Ghostbusters News (@GBNewsdotcom) June 11, 2025
Stage Contributions and Directorial Work
Yulin’s theatrical career was equally impressive, beginning with his New York stage debut in 1963 and his Broadway debut in 1980 with Lillian Hellman’s “Watch on the Rhine.” His Broadway credits expanded to include acclaimed performances in “The Visit,” “The Price,” and a Drama Desk-nominated role in the 1997 production of “The Diary of Anne Frank,” demonstrating his exceptional range and depth as a performer.
Beyond acting, Yulin established himself as a respected director, helming productions such as “The Glass Menagerie” and “The Trip to Bountiful,” which won four Lucille Lortel Awards. His final stage appearance came in a 2001 adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s “Hedda Gabler,” capping a distinguished theater career that included numerous Off-Broadway and regional theater productions like “Long Day’s Journey Into Night” and “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.”
Harris Yulin, the powerful actor who portrayed Maritza in #StarTrek #DS9‘s “Duet,” has died at age 88.https://t.co/9JThbIwfji#RIP pic.twitter.com/ZHyju4cbgM
— TrekCore.com
(@TrekCore) June 11, 2025
Legacy and Final Projects
At the time of his passing, Yulin was preparing to reunite with actress Laura Linney for the upcoming MGM+ series “American Classic,” highlighting his continued relevance in the industry. Director Michael Hoffman paid tribute to the actor, stating, “Harris Yulin was very simply one of the greatest artists I have ever encountered,” praising his “marriage of immense technique with an always fresh sense of discovery” that gave his performances “immediacy and vitality and purity.”
Yulin is survived by his wife Kristen Lowman, son-in-law Ted, nephew Martin, and godchildren Marco and Lara. He was previously married to actress Gwen Welles until she died in 1993, and was predeceased by his daughter, actress Claire Lucido. A memorial service to celebrate his remarkable life and career will be held at a later date, allowing the industry and fans to honor his significant contributions to American entertainment.
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Author: Editorial Team
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