‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘The Mask’ Actor Passes Away at 60
Peter Greene, the talented actor best known for his roles in “Pulp Fiction” and “The Mask,” has passed away at the age of 60. He was discovered in his apartment on the Lower East Side of New York City on Friday, as confirmed by his manager, Gregg Edwards.
Career Highlights
Greene made a significant impact in the film industry through various dynamic roles. His portrayal of Zed, a sadistic character in Quentin Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction,” remains one of his most iconic performances. In the 1994 film, Zed is one of the infamous “psycho hillbillies,” delivering a chilling performance that resonates with audiences even today.
In the same year, Greene took on the role of Dorian Tyrell, the villain in Jim Carrey’s popular film “The Mask.” These performances established him as a prominent character actor skilled in embodying dark and complex roles.
Early Life and Training
Born in Montclair, New Jersey, Greene developed his craft at Lee Strasberg’s acting studio. His breakout role came in the independent film “Laws of Gravity,” released in 1992. Following this, he starred in “Clean Shaven,” a film that garnered the attention of Quentin Tarantino and opened more avenues for his career.
Film and Television Contributions
Throughout his career, Greene appeared in nearly 100 films and television shows. Notable television roles featured recurring appearances in:
- “For Life”
- “Chicago P.D.”
- “Hawaii Five-O”
- “Justified”
- “Life on Mars”
- “The Black Donnellys” (as Derek “Dokey” Farrell)
Greene’s filmography includes significant films such as “Tesla,” “City of Lies,” “Once Fallen,” and “Permanent Midnight.” Additionally, he contributed as a producer on films like “Cross” and “Lowball.”
Legacy and Personal Reflections
Greene has been remembered for executing villainous roles with remarkable depth. His manager noted that while he portrayed many bad characters, Greene also possessed a gentle demeanor that few had the chance to see. His kindness was described as having “a heart as big as gold.”
The sudden passing of Peter Greene marks a profound loss for the acting community and his fans. His work in “Pulp Fiction” and “The Mask” will continue to be celebrated and remembered in cinema history.