Veteran American actor Harris Yulin, known for his commanding presence on both stage and screen, has passed away at the age of 87. Yulin died on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, after suffering cardiac arrest, his longtime manager, Sue Leibman, confirmed in a statement to the media.
The award-winning actor, who captivated generations with his intense and memorable performances, leaves behind a rich legacy of work that spanned more than five decades across film, television, and theatre. “Yulin was part of the vanguard of a generation that passionately cared about the craft of acting,” Leibman noted in the statement. “This lifelong dedication led to extraordinary, resonant performances that were a gift to the actors he worked with, audiences, and the art of acting itself.”
While details regarding his memorial service will be announced at a later date, the news of his passing has already triggered a wave of tributes from fans, fellow actors, and industry professionals.
Harris Yulin’s body of work reads like a tour of Hollywood’s most iconic productions. He played memorable roles in cult classics such as Scarface (1983), where he portrayed the corrupt police officer Mel Bernstein opposite Al Pacino, and Ghostbusters II (1989), where he brought gravitas to a comedic ensemble.
Yulin’s talent was not confined to film alone. He had a prominent presence in television with appearances in Frasier, 24, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The West Wing, and Law & Order, among others. His portrayal of Judge Stephen Wexler in the acclaimed drama Ozark further cemented his reputation as one of America’s most reliable character actors.
Beyond the screen, Yulin was a passionate theatre actor and director, often praised for his versatility and powerful stage presence. He performed in countless Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, earning acclaim for his roles in Shakespearean plays, contemporary dramas, and classic American theatre.
More than just a performer, Harris Yulin was widely respected in the industry as a mentor and a stalwart of the acting profession. Known for his intellect, depth, and uncompromising artistic standards, he inspired many up-and-coming actors with his commitment to truth in performance.
“He was an actor’s actor,” said fellow performer John Lithgow. “Harris never settled for anything less than authenticity, whether on stage or on set. He brought dignity to every role he played.”
Yulin kept much of his personal life private but was known for his close-knit friendships in the acting community and his enduring love for literature and classical music. He is survived by his partner and several nieces and nephews.
Though Harris Yulin may no longer walk the red carpets or command scenes with his signature gravitas, his influence will remain embedded in Hollywood lore. His performances will continue to educate and inspire, reminding future generations of what it means to be truly dedicated to one’s