Terry Carter, celebrated for his groundbreaking roles on screen and his impactful work behind the scenes, has passed away at the age of 95. Known for his roles as Sergeant Joe Broadhurst on “McCloud” and detective Colonel Tigh on the original “Battlestar Galactica,” Carter’s legacy extends far beyond his acting credits.
Born John Everett DeCoste in Brooklyn, New York, on December 16, 1928, Carter was of Dominican, Argentine, and African American descent. He blazed trails throughout his career, becoming the first Black TV news anchor for Boston’s WBZ-TV Eyewitness News. This historic achievement was coupled with his role as their first opening night drama and movie critic, showcasing his multifaceted talents in media.
Carter’s impact on television history is evident in his early work, where he was one of the first Black regulars on the 1956 TV sitcom series “The Phil Silvers Show.” His portrayal of Private Sugarman marked a significant step forward in on-screen diversity and representation.
Beyond acting, Carter was a visionary filmmaker and advocate for positive change in media. In 1979, he founded the Council for Positive Images, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering intercultural and interethnic understanding through media representation. This initiative led to the production and direction of several documentary programs for PBS, shedding light on cultural and historical topics.
His contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized by his peers, leading to roles on prestigious boards such as the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. Carter’s commitment to showcasing diverse stories was further evident in projects like the Emmy-nominated TV musical documentary “A Duke Named Ellington,” which celebrated the life of jazz legend Duke Ellington.
Terry Carter’s passing is mourned by his family, including his wife Etaferhu Zenebe-DeCoste, his children Miguel and Melinda, and his extended family. His impact on television and film, coupled with his advocacy for inclusion and diversity, leaves an enduring mark on Hollywood and beyond.
A private family memorial is planned to honor his life and contributions.