Peter Greene, a longtime character actor recognized for his intense on-screen portrayals of antagonists in several iconic Hollywood films, was found dead in his New York City apartment on Friday. He was 60 years old, according to initial police information. His passing was later confirmed by his longtime manager, Gregg Edwards.
Authorities responded to a call at a ground-floor apartment on the Lower East Side of Manhattan after concerns were raised by residents in the building. According to officials, officers discovered an unresponsive man inside the residence during a welfare check on Friday afternoon. Emergency services pronounced him dead at the scene.
Police have not indicated any signs of foul play. An autopsy was carried out on Saturday, and the official cause of death has not yet been released, pending further examination by the medical examiner. The investigation remains ongoing.
Greene built a career spanning more than four decades, becoming widely known for playing unsettling and morally complex characters. He gained international recognition in the mid-1990s with roles in major box-office successes, including Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction and the comic-book adaptation The Mask. His performances were often praised for their intensity and realism, helping him stand out as a memorable supporting actor.
Beyond those well-known films, Greene appeared in a wide range of independent and mainstream projects. His work included crime dramas, psychological thrillers, and television appearances, where he frequently portrayed law enforcement officers, criminals, or troubled figures. Industry colleagues often described him as deeply committed to his craft and unafraid to take creative risks.
Born in New Jersey, Greene began his acting career in the early 1990s, earning early acclaim in independent cinema. His performances during that period established him as a powerful screen presence and opened doors to larger studio productions. Despite his association with darker roles, those close to him described him as thoughtful and generous off camera.
According to his manager, Greene remained professionally active and enthusiastic about upcoming projects. He had recently been cast in a new film scheduled to begin production next year and was involved in creative work outside of acting, including documentary development. Edwards said he last spoke with Greene just days before his death and noted that the actor appeared optimistic and engaged with future plans.
Greene had previously spoken openly about personal struggles earlier in his life, including past battles with substance abuse, which he said shaped both his career and perspective. In later years, he focused on maintaining his health and staying active in New York City.
Tributes from fans and fellow actors have begun appearing online, remembering Greene for his unforgettable performances and dedication to storytelling. While he was rarely a leading man, his work left a lasting mark on audiences and filmmakers alike.
Peter Greene is survived by family members who have been notified of his passing. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
