New York City — Harris Yulin, the acclaimed actor celebrated for his unforgettable roles in Scarface, Ghostbusters II, and Ozark, passed away from cardiac arrest in New York City at the age of 87.
A Life in Roles, A Career of Depth
Born in Los Angeles on November 5, 1937, Yulin’s journey began on the New York stage in 1963 before evolving into a prolific career that spanned more than six decades. On Broadway, he delivered powerful performances in productions like Hedda Gabler, The Diary of Anne Frank, The Price, Watch on the Rhine, and The Visit — also earning acclaim as a director for revivals such as The Trip to Bountiful, which won a Lucille Lortel Award.
From Tony Montana to the Courtroom
In film, he was perhaps best-known as Detective Mel Bernstein in Scarface (1983) and Judge Wexler in Ghostbusters II (1989). His screen presence continued in roles ranging from Clear and Present Danger and Training Day to The Place Beyond the Pines.
Wafting Between Silver Screen and Small Screen
Yulin’s television credits included an Emmy-nominated guest role on Frasier (1996), as well as significant appearances on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, 24, Ozark, Veep, The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Billions, and Entourage.
A Legacy in Teaching and Direction
Beyond acting, Yulin shared his craft through teaching at Juilliard and Columbia and directing on Broadway and off-Broadway stages. Critics and colleagues applauded his craftsmanship and generosity—qualities that shaped both his artistry and personal presence.
Final Days, Final Role
Until his passing, he was preparing for a new role in the MGM+ series American Classic opposite Kevin Kline and Laura Linney. Creator-director Michael Hoffman wrote of Yulin:
“One of the greatest artists I have ever encountered… his technique, humility, and generosity… he will always remain the beating heart of our show.”
Loved and Remembered
He is survived by his wife, Kristen Lowman, son-in-law Ted Mineo, nephew Martin Crane, and godchildren Marco and Lara Greenberg. He was predeceased by his daughter, Claire Lucido.
Harris Yulin’s career was defined by his devotion to acting’s artistry—a steady, powerful presence that resonated equally on stage, screen, and in the lives of those who worked with him.
