New York, New York – Peter Greene, known for his memorable role as Zed in Quentin Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction,” has died at the age of 60 from an accidental gunshot wound. The New York City’s Chief Medical Examiner’s office confirmed that Greene suffered a fatal injury when the bullet perforated his left armpit, damaging the brachial artery and leading to significant blood loss.
Greene’s body was discovered in his apartment on the Lower East Side on December 12, 2025. Concerned neighbors alerted the landlord and subsequently the police after noticing music playing continuously from his residence for several days. Authorities have ruled the death an accident.
The actor gained notoriety in the film industry with his chilling portrayal of Zed, a character involved in a shocking scene with crime boss Marsellus Wallace, played by Ving Rhames. Greene’s depiction, alongside Duane Whitaker’s character Maynard and Stephen Hibbert’s gimp, contributed to the film’s darkly comedic homage to the classic film “Deliverance.”
In addition to “Pulp Fiction,” Greene portrayed the villain Dorian Tyrell in the 1994 hit “The Mask,” where he starred opposite Jim Carrey. His character’s ambitious plans included seizing control of his crime organization by using a mystical mask that transformed him into a formidable adversary.
Over his career, Greene accumulated an impressive filmography, featuring nearly 100 roles across both film and television. He appeared in various acclaimed series, including “Chicago P.D.,” “Hawaii Five-O,” “Justified,” and “Life on Mars.” His versatility allowed him to shift between genres, displaying both dramatic and comedic talent.
Greene’s legacy will live on with his posthumous performance in the upcoming drama “Clika,” ensuring that audiences will continue to experience his craft. Friends, family, and fans alike are mourning the loss of a talented actor who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.