Harris Yulin, Veteran Actor of Stage and Screen, Dies at 87
Harris Yulin, the esteemed Emmy-nominated actor known for his commanding presence on both stage and screen, has died at the age of 87. His passing was confirmed by his manager, Sue Leibman, who stated that Yulin died of cardiac arrest on June 10 in New York City.
With a career spanning over six decades, Yulin was celebrated for his versatility and depth, earning acclaim in film, television, and theater. He played Hamlet three times off-Broadway and graced Broadway stages in acclaimed productions like Hedda Gabler, The Price, and The Visit. He also dedicated eight years to teaching at New York’s prestigious Juilliard School, nurturing the next generation of performers.
Yulin was actively engaged in creative work up to his final days, collaborating with longtime friend and actor Stacy Keach, and preparing to film a new series, American Classic, with Kevin Kline and Laura Linney. The show’s director, Michael Hoffman, praised Yulin as “very simply one of the greatest artists I have ever encountered,” adding, “What he was as an actor, he was as a man—graceful, humble, and generous.”
Film fans will remember Yulin as the furious courtroom judge in Ghostbusters II (1989), whose outburst triggers supernatural chaos. His film credits also include notable roles in Scarface, Clear and Present Danger, Multiplicity, Looking for Richard, and Training Day.
On television, Yulin earned a Primetime Emmy nomination for his guest role on Frasier in 1996. He also left a mark with appearances on Veep, Billions, Divorce, The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, and And Just Like That…. More recently, he delivered a memorable performance on Netflix’s Ozark, appearing opposite Jason Bateman and Laura Linney.
Yulin is survived by his wife, Kristen Lowman, a son-in-law, a nephew, and several godchildren. He was predeceased by his daughter, actress Claire Lucido.