Scarface and Ozark star Harris Yulin passes away at 88
Harris Yulin, the iconic actor known for Scarface and Ghostbusters II, has died at 88 from cardiac arrest. With over 140 roles in film and TV, Yulin leaves behind a rich legacy of unforgettable characters. He passed away in New York, just before starting a new show with MGM+.
Harris Yulin, the legendary actor best known for playing tough and memorable roles in Scarface, Clear and Present Danger, and Ghostbusters II, has passed away at the age of 88. He died of cardiac arrest on June 12 in New York City. This was confirmed by his manager Sue Leibman.
He had more than 140 film and TV credits to his name and was still active before his death. He was supposed to begin work soon on a new MGM+ series called American Classic, which would have reunited him with Ozark star Laura Linney and actor Kevin Kline.
From Scarface to Ozark: A long journey in film and TV
We¡¯re saddened to share the news of the passing of acclaimed actor Harris Yulin, who died June 10 in New York City at the age of 87.
¡ª Ghostbusters News (@GBNewsdotcom) June 11, 2025
For Ghostbusters fans, Yulin is remembered for portraying the no-nonsense Judge Stephen Wexler, aka ¡°The Hammer,¡± in Ghostbusters II.
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Born in Los Angeles in 1937, Yulin started acting on stage before moving to the big screen. He became a familiar face in Hollywood and played strong, often shady characters. One of his most famous roles came in 1983 when he played Mel Bernstein, the corrupt cop in Scarface, opposite Al Pacino. Fans also remember his cameo as a judge in Ghostbusters II, and as a corrupt official in Clear and Present Danger.
Yulin¡¯s talent stretched beyond films. He earned an Emmy nomination in 1996 for a guest role in Frasier. He also appeared in The X-Files, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, 24, Damages, Entourage, and Ozark, where he played the unforgettable Buddy Dieker in Season 1.
Director Michael Hoffman paid tribute, calling him ¡°one of the greatest artists¡± and saying his energy, humility, and presence shaped every project he touched.
Yulin also had a strong stage career, appearing in Broadway and off-Broadway productions like Death of a Salesman and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. He was respected both in front of the camera and on the stage.
Harris Yulin is survived by his wife, actress Kristen Lowman. The industry says goodbye to a true icon whose face, voice, and acting talent made every scene better.