Peter Jason, Known for ‘Deadwood’ and John Carpenter Roles, Dies at 80

Peter Jason, the prolific character actor whose career spanned more than five decades in film and television, died on February 20, 2025, in West Hollywood at the age of 80. His family confirmed that the cause was cancer.

Known for his rugged screen presence and ability to fully inhabit a wide range of supporting roles, Jason appeared in hundreds of productions throughout his long career. He was especially recognized for his frequent collaborations with director John Carpenter, appearing in cult classics such as They Live, Prince of Darkness, Escape from L.A., and Village of the Damned. Fans of Carpenter’s films came to see Jason as a reliable, familiar face who added weight and personality to each appearance.

On television, Jason was known for his work in the acclaimed HBO series Deadwood, where he portrayed Con Stapleton. His performance in the gritty Western drama earned him praise for bringing nuance and authenticity to a morally ambiguous character in a lawless town. His TV résumé also included roles in Nash Bridges, Murder, She Wrote, Desperate Housewives, Six Feet Under, and many others.

Born on July 22, 1944, in Hollywood, California, Peter Jason (born Peter Edward Ostling) was immersed in the entertainment world from an early age. He studied acting at the prestigious Carnegie Mellon University and later at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco. He began his film career in the late 1960s and never stopped working, building a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most dependable character actors.

Jason was known for playing cops, military men, tough guys, and authority figures, often adding emotional complexity to even the smallest roles. His versatility and professionalism made him a favorite among directors and casting agents. He also had a rich voice and commanding presence, which led to voice acting work in animation and video games.

Beyond the screen, Jason had a deep love for theatre and the arts. He participated in stage productions throughout his career and mentored young actors in local theatre programs. Friends and colleagues described him as hardworking, warm, and generous with his time and experience.

In his later years, Jason remained active in fan conventions and film retrospectives, often sharing stories from his time on set with Carpenter, Clint Eastwood, and other major directors he worked with. He cherished his connection with fans, particularly those who followed his cult and genre work.

Peter Jason is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. A private memorial will be held, with details about a public tribute to be announced later.

With his passing, Hollywood loses a skilled actor whose face and voice were familiar to generations of viewers. Peter Jason’s work lives on in the many films and shows he helped shape, and his presence will be missed by audiences and peers alike.