Peter Greene, Actor in ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘The Mask,’ Dies at 60

Peter Greene, a celebrated actor known for his distinctive portrayals of villains and criminals, has passed away at the age of 60. His manager confirmed that he died at his home in New York City’s Lower East Side on a recent Friday. The cause of death remains undisclosed.

Career Highlights of Peter Greene

Greene gained widespread recognition for his role as Zed in Quentin Tarantino’s iconic film, “Pulp Fiction.” Released in 1994, this film featured Greene as a sadistic security guard involved in a chilling storyline. That same year, he also portrayed the villain Dorian in “The Mask,” opposite Jim Carrey.

Pivotal Roles and Performances

Greene’s talent extended to several other significant roles. His performance in the 1993 film “Clean, Shaven” showcased his range as he played a man with schizophrenia suspected of murder. The New York Times praised his ability to captivate audiences, highlighting the complexity of his character.

• Pulp Fiction: Played Zed, a memorable and disturbing character.
• The Mask: Portrayed Dorian, the antagonist in a comedic environment.
• Clean, Shaven: Played a tragic figure dealing with mental illness.
• The Usual Suspects: Featured as Redfoot, key to the plot’s criminal activities.
• Training Day: Acted as Detective Jeff, involved in a tense cover-up scenario.

Legacy and Impact

Throughout his career, Greene contributed to numerous films and television shows, solidifying his reputation as a skilled character actor. His role in “Training Day,” where he shares a tense moment with Denzel Washington’s character, remains one of his most iconic. Greene’s influence on the film industry is marked by the memorable villains he brought to life, further displaying his versatility and talent.

Born on October 8, 1965, in Montclair, New Jersey, Greene began his acting career in his 20s while living in New York City. His work continues to leave a lasting impact on both audiences and fellow actors.