Terry Carter, Renowned Actor From “Battlestar Galactica” and “McCloud,” Passes Away At 95
Actor Terry Carter, widely recognized for his memorable roles in iconic TV shows like Battlestar Galactica and McCloud, has passed away at the age of 95. The news of his demise was confirmed by his official website and his son, Miguel Carter DeCoste, to The New York Times. Terry breathed his last on Tuesday, April 23, peacefully at his home in Manhattan, New York.
Born as John Everett DeCoste on December 16, 1928, in Brooklyn, New York, Terry embarked on a remarkable career that left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. He made history by becoming one of the first Black actors to feature prominently in a TV sitcom series, The Phil Silvers Show, portraying the character of Private Sugarman in 92 episodes from 1955 to 1959.
Following his early success, Terry’s career soared to new heights as he ventured into both television and film. He graced the silver screen in the movie adaptation of Mildred Savage’s novel Parrish and made a significant impact on the small screen with his portrayal of the sole Black G.I. in the World War II series Combat!, which aired from 1962 to 1967.
In a groundbreaking move, Terry became New England’s inaugural Black TV anchor newscaster for WBZ-TV Eyewitness News in Boston from 1965 to 1968. Concurrently, he assumed the role of drama and movie critic for the station, showcasing his versatility and talent beyond acting.
Transitioning seamlessly between television and film, Terry starred in notable productions such as the 1970 movie Company of Killers and the Blaxploitation classic Foxy Brown. Throughout the 1970s, he captivated audiences as Sgt. Joe Broadhurst in the hit series McCloud and as Colonel Tigh in Battlestar Galactica, in which he starred in 21 episodes.
Not content with merely acting, Terry established his own production company in 1975, focusing on educational documentaries. His dedication to promoting cultural understanding led to the creation of the Council for Positive Images, a nonprofit organization aimed at fostering intercultural harmony in media.
In recognition of his contributions to the industry, Terry was inducted into the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 1983 and served on various committees. He also produced acclaimed documentaries, including the Emmy-nominated A Duke Named Ellington, which celebrated the life of jazz legend Duke Ellington.
Terry’s personal life was marked by family. He was married three times, with his last marriage to Selome Zenebe in 2009. He leaves behind a legacy of talent, compassion, and dedication to his craft. A private family memorial is planned to honor his memory.
