Terrence "T.C." Carson (born November 19, 1958) is an American actor known for his performances across television, film, stage, and video games. He is best known for portraying Kyle Barker on the Fox sitcom, Living Single, and is the original voice of Kratos in the God of War video game series, playing the role from 2005 to 2013. Additionally, Carson lent his voice to Mace Windu in various Star Wars media, including Star Wars: The Clone Wars.
Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Terrence "T.C." Carson was the only child of his mother, who brought him up in the LeClaire Courts projects of the Chicago Housing Authority.[1] He credits his mother, who was a seamstress and a nurse's aid, with instilling in him a love of the arts. He pursued higher education at the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign, majoring in architecture and interior design, and in 1981 became a member of the Iota Phi Theta fraternity.[2]
Career
Carson's artistic journey began on stage, where he showcased his talents in numerous plays and musicals. His performances include roles in The Wiz, Dreamgirls, and Ain't Misbehavin'. He also toured nationally with productions such as Sesame Street Live.
Television
Carson is best known for his role as Kyle Barker on the hit sitcom Living Single, which aired from 1993 to 1998. His portrayal of the suave stockbroker earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Years later, he would characterize his departure as a firing.[3] He also appeared in other television series, including Greenleaf, where he had a recurring role, and guest appearances on shows like Black Lightning and Nashville.
Carson's filmography includes roles in movies such as Livin' Large! (1991), U-571 (2000), and Final Destination 2 (2003), where he played Eugene Dix, a schoolteacher and one of the survivors of the Route 23 crash. Carson portrayed Marcus Elkins in the A Wesley Christmas film series, beginning with A Wesley Christmas (2022), A Wesley Christmas Wedding (2023), and A Wesley South African Christmas (2024). He earned an NAACP Image Award nomination for his role at the 54th NAACP Image Awards in 2023. In 2024, Carson made his directorial debut with The Love Doctor, a feature film written by David L. Rowell and Anthony Guilianti.
Music
As a vocalist, Carson has released a few albums and singles showcasing his jazz and funk influences. His discography includes:
Truth (2002): A jazz/funk album featuring a mix of ballads, mid-tempo tracks, African rhythms, and dance funk tunes.
Live in Beverly Hills (2014): A live recording capturing Carson's dynamic performance style.
Come Together (2020): A single blending jazz, R&B, and soul influences offering a message of unity and connection in the aftermath of George Floyd's killing in May 2020.
InnerCity Jazz (LIVE) (2024): An eclectic mix of classics and new grooves.
Carson's performance of "My Funny Valentine" on Living Single remains a fan-favorite moment from the series, showcasing his rich, velvety baritone and jazz-influenced vocal style. As his character, Kyle Barker, serenades Maxine Shaw (Erika Alexander) with the classic ballad, the scene captures the depth of their complex romance, blending passion, vulnerability, and undeniable chemistry.
Awards and honors
Throughout his career, Carson has received several accolades:
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