Hollywood is mourning the loss of a true legend. Harris Yulin, the veteran actor best known for his roles in Scarface and Ozark, passed away on June 10, 2025, in New York City. He was 87 years old. The cause of death was reported as cardiac arrest.
His death marks the end of a brilliant career that spanned over six decades. Fans and fellow actors alike are paying tribute to the man whose work left a lasting impression across film, television, and theater.
Harris Yulin wasn’t your typical leading man. But he had something even more powerful — presence. Whether playing a corrupt detective in Scarface or a warm-hearted curmudgeon in Ozark, Yulin brought depth, command, and authenticity to every role.
His portrayal of Mel Bernstein, the crooked Miami cop in Brian De Palma’s Scarface (1983), remains one of the film’s most memorable characters. Sharing screen space with Al Pacino, Harris Yulin stood tall — a testament to his talent and charisma.
In more recent years, he captivated a new generation as Buddy Dieker in Netflix’s Ozark. Despite limited screen time, Yulin made Buddy a beloved character with his gruff charm and wise demeanor.
Harris Yulin was more than just a film and TV actor. He was a stage powerhouse. His extensive Broadway career included critically acclaimed performances in Hedda Gabler, The Price, and The Diary of Anne Frank.
In 1996, he earned an Emmy nomination for his guest appearance on Frasier. His performance as a judge was both witty and nuanced — just like much of his career.
From Star Trek: Deep Space Nine to 24 and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Harris Yulin left his mark across genres, always adapting, always delivering.
Harris Yulin's body of work was nothing short of prolific. He appeared in over 100 films and TV shows, including:
Clear and Present Danger
Training Day
Ghostbusters II
Multiplicity
Rush Hour 2
His career wasn’t defined by blockbusters alone. Harris Yulin often chose complex, layered roles — sometimes in small films, but always with big impact.
At the time of his passing, Harris Yulin was involved in a new project — American Classic, an upcoming MGM+ series directed by Michael Hoffman. The show also stars Kevin Kline and Laura Linney.
Director Hoffman called him “the beating heart of our show,” and praised Yulin’s immense range and technique. “He had an immediacy and vitality that lit up the screen,” said Hoffman. “He was one of the greatest artists I’ve ever encountered.”
His fellow cast members and friends have also taken to social media to share heartfelt tributes, calling Harris Yulin a “giant among character actors” and “a true professional to the end.”
Harris Yulin was known to keep his private life away from the limelight. He was once married to Blythe Danner, the mother of Gwyneth Paltrow, though the couple eventually separated. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, humility, and unmatched artistry.
Unlike many celebrities, he never chased fame. Harris Yulin chased great stories and the truth in performance.
For fans of Scarface, Ozark, and classic cinema, Harris Yulin's death feels like the closing of a powerful chapter. He was never the loudest name on the marquee, but he was often the most memorable presence on screen.
From crime dramas to science fiction, from sitcoms to the Broadway stage — Harris Yulin did it all. And he did it with grace, grit, and unmatched skill.
Harris Yulin was more than just a supporting actor. He was a scene-stealer, a craftsman, and a bridge between generations of performers. His loss is deeply felt, but his performances will live on — in every rerun, every streaming binge, and every theater archive.
As fans revisit his iconic roles in Scarface, Ozark, and beyond, one thing is clear — Hollywood will not forget Harris Yulin.