Harold Hunter facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Harold Hunter
|
|
|---|---|
Hunter in Times Square, 1989
|
|
| Born |
Harold Atkins Hunter
April 2, 1974 New York City, U.S.
|
| Died | February 17, 2006 (aged 31) New York City, U.S.
|
| Occupation | Professional skateboarder, actor |
Harold Atkins Hunter (born April 2, 1974 – died February 17, 2006) was an American professional skateboarder and actor. He became well-known for playing the character Harold in the 1995 movie Kids. Harold Hunter was a beloved figure in the skateboarding world. He inspired many young people in New York City and beyond.
Contents
Who Was Harold Hunter?
Harold Hunter was born in New York City. He grew up in a public housing building in the East Village. He lived there with his two brothers. As a young person, Harold spent a lot of time skateboarding. He often skated near Tompkins Square Park and Washington Square Park. These parks were popular spots for skateboarders.
Early Life and Skateboarding Beginnings
Harold first got noticed in the skateboarding community. He was sponsored by a local skate shop called Skate NYC. In 1989, he appeared in Thrasher magazine. This magazine is very famous among skateboarders. A photographer named Charlie Samuels took pictures of him. These photos showed the exciting New York City skateboard scene. Harold was a "goofy-footed" skateboarder. This means he rode with his right foot forward. He was sponsored by Zoo York, a well-known skateboarding brand. Later, he even started his own company called Rock Star Bearings Co.
From Skateboarding to Acting
In 1995, Harold Hunter got a big chance. He appeared in the movie Kids. He played a character named Harold, which was his own name. The film was about teenagers living in the East Village. After Kids, Harold also did voice-overs for the TV series Kung Faux. He also appeared on an episode of the TV show Miami Ink. On that show, he got a special tattoo. The tattoo showed the World Trade Center towers. It also had a skateboarder jumping in front of them. This tattoo celebrated his New York City roots and his youth connections.
His Legacy: The Harold Hunter Foundation
Harold Hunter passed away on February 17, 2006. He was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery in The Bronx. After his passing, the Harold Hunter Foundation was created. This foundation helps young people in New York City who are interested in skateboarding. It supports them and helps them follow their dreams. Harold Hunter's legacy continues to inspire many young skateboarders.
Films and TV Shows
Harold Hunter appeared in several films and TV shows during his career.
- New Jersey Drive (1995)
- Kids (1995)
- Mind Games (1996)
- Hand on the Pump (1998)
- Frezno Smooth (1999)
- Save the Last Dance (2001)
- Kung Faux (2003)
- Man Under Wire (2005)
See also
In Spanish: Harold Hunter para niños
