actor Harris Yulin, famed for his portrayal in 'Scarface', passes away at 87 years old - Actor Harris Yulin, famed for his role in "Scarface," passes away at 87 years old.
🕒 ~ 2 Min Read
We bid a sorrowful farewell to the charismatic character actor, Harris Yulin. On the morning of June 10, 2023, Yulin suffered a heart attack and passed away in New York City, as confirmed by "Deadline" through his family and manager. The veteran actor, 87, left behind a legacy of over a century's worth of film and stage work.
Yulin, born on November 5, 1937, in LA, embarked on his theatrical journey in 1963 with his debut on Broadway in "Next Time I'll Sing to You." Yet, it wasn't until the 1980 revival of "Watch on the Rhine" that his career catapulted. His commanding presence graced the stages of some of Broadway's most renowned productions, including "A Lesson from Aloes," "The Visit," "The Diary of Anne Frank," "The Price," and "Hedda Gabler" in 2001. His exceptional talent for dramatic roles—especially those involving nuanced language—set him apart on the New York musical boulevard and in regional theaters[2].
A Versatile Star Across Screen and Stage
With his distinctive appearance, Harris Yulin became a popular choice for character roles in Hollywood films such as "Scarface," "Ghostbusters II," "Training Day," "Rush Hour 2," "The Firm," and "Hurricane," among others. On television, Yulin garnered significant recognition for his Emmy-nominated guest role in "Frasier" in 1996. In his later years, he continued to act, making impressive appearances in "Ozark," "Billions," "Veep," and "The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" before his final role in the 2021 film "Omni Loop." Beyond acting, Yulin also directed films and taught at the prestigious Juilliard School and other universities[2].
In the weeks before his passing, Yulin was preparing for his lead role in the MGM+ series "American Classic," alongside Kevin Kline and Laura Linney. Michael Hoffman, with whom Yulin worked on "Game 6" in 2005, paid an emotional tribute, stating, "Harris Yulin was one of the greatest artists I've ever come across. His exceptional technique, coupled with a sense of fresh discovery, created an immediacy, vibrancy, and sincerity that I've never encountered elsewhere. And what made him incredible on stage, was the same as a person – grace, modesty, and generosity."
Reflecting on his life and career, Yulin's impact on the world of theater spans both sides of the camera. Whether directing, acting, or teaching, his dedication and passion for the arts were unparalleled[2]. Rest in peace, Harris Yulin. Your legacy will forever echo through the halls of Broadway and beyond.
[2] Enrichment Data
- Harris Yulin performed in several prominent regional theater productions, including a noted portrayal of Willy Loman in "Death of a Salesman" in Dublin, Ireland in 2010.
- As a director, Yulin led several Off-Broadway and Chicago productions, most notably "The Trip to Bountiful" at Signature Theatre (Off-Broadway) in 2013. Under his direction, the production won four Lucille Lortel Awards.
- Apart from his work on Broadway and in Hollywood, Yulin directed at regional theaters and taught film at several universities, including the prestigious Juilliard School.
- Harris Yulin's Broadway legacy encompasses performances in classic dramas, regional acclaim, and significant directing achievements, especially with "The Trip to Bountiful," for which he won numerous awards.
I'm not gonna let you go, movie-and-tv enthusiasts, as we take a moment to remember the exceptional artist Harris Yulin. Despite his passing in 2023, Yulin's influence in the entertainment industry—from Broadway to Hollywood—endures, his memorable roles in shows like "Frasier," "Ozark," and "The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" continuing to resonate long after he left the stage.
