What happened to Peter Greene? ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘The Mask’ Actor found dead at 60 in NYC apartment

Peter Greene, the acclaimed character actor best known for his chilling performances in “Pulp Fiction,” “The Mask,” “The Usual Suspects,” and “Training Day,” was found dead inside his Lower East Side apartment in New York City on Friday. He was 60 years old.

Law enforcement sources confirmed that officers responded to a call at approximately 3:25 p.m. at Greene’s ground-floor apartment on Clinton Street near Stanton Street. The New York Police Department said a 60-year-old man was found deceased at the location, though authorities initially declined to release the name pending notification procedures.

Greene’s longtime manager later confirmed his death, stating that the actor’s family had been notified.

Discovery of Peter Greene’s Body Raises Questions

According to a neighbor, Greene was discovered after residents reported Christmas music playing loudly from his apartment for several days. Building management eventually sent a locksmith to gain entry on Friday, where Greene was found lying face down inside the apartment.

Police said there was no immediate indication of foul play, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the official cause of death. Investigators have not announced whether an autopsy has been completed.

A handwritten note posted on Greene’s apartment door reportedly included the phrase “I’m still a Westie,” a reference believed to allude to the Irish-American gang culture of New York’s Hell’s Kitchen in past decades.

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A Career Defined by Iconic Villain Roles

Peter Greene carved out a unique place in Hollywood as one of the most intense and unforgettable character actors of his generation. He rose to international fame in 1994 with his portrayal of Zed, the sadistic security guard in Quentin Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction.”

That same year, Greene appeared as the villain Dorian Tyrell in Jim Carrey’s blockbuster “The Mask,” further cementing his reputation for playing menacing, psychologically complex characters.

His filmography also includes standout roles in:

• “The Usual Suspects” (as Redfoot)
• “Training Day” (as Detective Jeff)
• “Clean, Shaven” (1993), a critically acclaimed performance that drew praise for its raw emotional intensity

Despite often being cast as criminals and antagonists, colleagues frequently described Greene as deeply sensitive, thoughtful, and intellectually engaged.

Struggles, Resilience, and a Late-Career Comeback

Greene was open about his struggles with substance abuse in the 1990s, a period that coincided with both professional success and personal turmoil. In later interviews, he described years of recovery and a renewed commitment to his craft.

According to his manager, Greene had recently been cast in an upcoming film starring Mickey Rourke and was in talks for additional projects. He had also been preparing for scheduled surgery to remove a benign tumor near his lungs, but was otherwise described as physically active and mentally sharp.

Friends noted that Greene frequently biked around New York City and remained passionate about acting, improvisation, and storytelling.

Tributes Highlight a Brilliant but Complicated Talent

Following news of his death, tributes poured in from industry insiders who praised Greene as a fearless performer and perfectionist.

“One of the most brilliant character actors of our generation,” his manager said. “Nobody played a bad guy better, but he had a gentle side most people never saw.”

Greene is survived by a brother and a sister. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Legacy of Peter Greene in Film History

Though never a conventional leading man, Peter Greene’s performances left an indelible mark on 1990s American cinema. His ability to blend menace with vulnerability made his characters unforgettable, and often unsettling, in the best possible way.

As investigators work to determine the circumstances of his death, fans and fellow actors alike are remembering Greene not just for the darkness he portrayed on screen, but for the complex humanity he brought to every role

FAQ

Who was Peter Greene?

Peter Greene was an American actor best known for roles in Pulp Fiction, The Mask, The Usual Suspects, and Training Day.

How old was Peter Greene when he died?

Peter Greene was 60 years old at the time of his death.

What happened to Peter Greene?

Peter Greene was found dead in his Lower East Side apartment in New York City. Authorities are investigating the cause of death.

Has Peter Greene’s cause of death been released?

No. As of now, the medical examiner has not released an official cause of death.

Where was Peter Greene found?

He was found inside his apartment on Clinton Street in Manhattan’s Lower East Side.

Was foul play suspected in Peter Greene’s death?

Police said there was no immediate indication of foul play, though the investigation is ongoing.

What movies is Peter Greene famous for?

He is most famous for Pulp Fiction (Zed), The Mask (Dorian), The Usual Suspects, Training Day, and Clean, Shaven.

Did Peter Greene struggle with addiction?

Yes. Greene publicly discussed his struggles with addiction in the 1990s and later focused on recovery.

Was Peter Greene working on new projects?

Yes. He had recently been cast in an upcoming film and was in talks for other acting roles.