Peter Greene, ‘Pulp Fiction’ Actor, Dies from Accidental Gunshot at NYC Apartment

Peter Greene, the actor renowned for his iconic villain roles in Pulp Fiction and The Mask, has died from an accidental gunshot wound, two months after being found deceased in his New York City apartment. The city’s Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed that Greene suffered a gunshot to his left armpit, which severed his brachial artery and caused fatal blood loss.

Born in New Jersey, Greene gained fame for portraying memorable antagonists on both the big and small screens. He first captured audiences’ attention as the sadistic security guard Zed in Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction (1994) and later as mobster Dorian Tyrell opposite Jim Carrey in The Mask. His compelling portrayals often balanced menace with complexity, earning him recognition as one of Hollywood’s most distinctive character actors.

Greene’s filmography spans nearly 100 projects, including roles in The Usual Suspects as Redfoot, Judgment Night, Under Siege 2: Dark Territory, Blue Streak, and Training Day. His television appearances include credits on Hawaii Five‑O, Justified, Chicago PD, and The Continental, a spinoff of the John Wick franchise, showcasing his versatility across genres.

Greene’s manager, Gregg Edwards, remembered him as both a consummate actor and a man of gentle nature. “Nobody played a bad guy better than Peter,” Edwards said. “Behind his tough screen persona was a heart as big as gold.”

The actor’s death marks the loss of a prolific performer whose portrayals of villains left an enduring impression on audiences worldwide. Greene is remembered for his ability to bring depth and intensity to his characters while maintaining a warmth that those close to him knew well.

Peter Greene’s legacy continues through his unforgettable performances, which remain influential in film and television, solidifying his place among the most memorable character actors of his generation.