Peter Greene, the American actor widely recognized for roles in major motion pictures including Pulp Fiction and The Mask, was found deceased at his New York City residence on Thursday afternoon. Greene was 60 years old. The New York Police Department is currently investigating the death, though authorities have indicated no immediate signs of foul play. The specific cause of death is pending confirmation by the medical examiner’s office.
According to reports citing both law enforcement and Greene’s manager, Gregg Edward, the actor was discovered unresponsive at his apartment on Clinton Street at approximately 3:25 p.m. local time. While the circumstances surrounding his passing remain under investigation, representatives confirmed the news to media outlets late Thursday.
Greene enjoyed a prolific career, often cast in intense or villainous roles, earning him recognition across several celebrated Hollywood projects. Beyond his memorable appearance in Quentin Tarantino’s critically acclaimed Pulp Fiction and his role opposite Jim Carrey in the blockbuster comedy The Mask, Greene also acted in other notable films such as The Usual Suspects and Training Day.
The news of his death has deeply saddened colleagues. Greene’s manager, Gregg Edward, confirmed that the actor had been preparing for an upcoming project. Media reports indicated that Greene was slated to co-star with actor Mickey Rourke in the film Mascots, scheduled to begin production in January. Edward conveyed the profound sorrow felt by the film’s production team upon learning of his passing.
Greene’s life included significant personal struggles, which he openly discussed in past interviews. He recounted leaving home at age 15 and surviving on the streets of New York, where he developed a drug addiction and was involved in drug trafficking. The actor often spoke about his long battle to overcome these personal demons and his subsequent commitment to rehabilitation. It was reported that in 1996, Greene survived a suicide attempt, after which he actively pursued treatment and efforts to achieve sobriety.
His career demonstrated a resilience and ability to translate complex, often tormented experiences into compelling on-screen performances. Though he frequently portrayed troubled characters, his personal trajectory reflected a long-term fight for recovery and redemption.
While the entertainment industry mourns the loss of a talented, albeit often controversial, figure, attention will now turn to the medical examiner’s investigation to officially determine the cause of death. Peter Greene leaves behind a substantial filmography that continues to resonate with audiences, particularly those interested in the darker, more nuanced aspects of cinema. His passing marks the end of a career characterized by both artistic versatility and profound personal challenge.
