Thomas Kent Carter (December 18, 1956 – January 9, 2026) was an American actor celebrated for his diverse roles across film and television. Born in New York City, Carter built a career showcasing both comedic talent, as seen in films like Corvette Summer, and a knack for portraying nervous characters, such as the rollerskating chef Nauls in John Carpenter's The Thing and the unfortunate Cribbs in Southern Comfort.

On television, he starred in the series Just Our Luck and was widely known for his roles in Punky Brewster and Good Morning, Miss Bliss. Carter earned critical acclaim for his powerful portrayal of drug-addicted Gary McCullough in the HBO miniseries The Corner, a performance lauded for its depth. His extensive and versatile career spanned decades, leaving a memorable mark on both big and small screens until his passing at age 69.