'Punky Brewster' star T.K. Carter's cause of death released

Actor T.K. Carter's cause of death has been revealed.

The "Punky Brewster" star died from systolic heart failure, according to documents from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. The condition causes the left ventricle of an individual's heart to become weakened, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Carter also suffered from atrial fibrillation, an arrhythmia resulting in rapid heartbeat, and pulmonary hypertension, a progressive disease that can result in high blood pressure.

Carter died Jan. 9 after being found at his home in Duarte, California. He was 69.

Born Thomas Kent Carter on Dec. 18, 1956, Carter was raised in Southern California and began performing stand-up at age 12. After getting his start in comedy, Carter appeared as Nauls in "The Thing," as well as films like "Space Jam," "The L.A. Riot Spectacular" and "Ski Patrol."

He had a recurring role as Michael "Mike" Fulton on the sitcom "Punky Brewster," which ran from 1984 to 1988. Recent projects included roles in series "The Company You Keep" and "Dave" in 2023. 

Fellow actor Jamie Foxx posted a tribute to Carter on Jan. 10, calling him "a cornerstone of comedy."

"Rest in power king you were an inspiration to me and a lot of other comedians," Foxx wrote. 

Viola Davis also honored Carter after his death.

"You were a hidden talent! An actor of unprecedented depth and.....a wonderful soul. You felt like family. I'm proud to have spent time with you.....rest well," Davis posted on Instagram.

"T.K. Carter was a consummate professional and a genuine soul whose talent transcended genres," said Tony Freeman, Carter's publicist, in a statement. "He brought laughter, truth, and humanity to every role he touched. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists and fans alike."

According to Freeman, Carter is survived by his mother and children.

Contributing: Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY