Paul Eckstein

Biography

Paul Eckstein (1963 – June 6, 2023) was an American actor, television writer, and producer best known for his work on acclaimed series such as Godfather of Harlem, Narcos, and Law & Order: Criminal Intent. He was also a founding member of the influential theater collective Naked Angels, which played a significant role in nurturing contemporary American playwrights and screenwriters.

Early Life

Paul Eckstein was born in 1963 in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up in New York City, he developed an early interest in performance and storytelling, which later shaped his career across both acting and writing.

Career

Eckstein worked extensively in television, contributing as a writer and producer to several high-profile drama series. His work on Law & Order: Criminal Intent reflected his strength in procedural storytelling and character-driven narratives. He later became widely recognized for his contributions to Narcos and Godfather of Harlem, where he helped craft layered stories centered on crime, power, and historical context.

In addition to his television work, Eckstein remained closely connected to the theater community. As a founding member of Naked Angels, he supported new voices in drama and helped foster collaborative creative spaces for writers and actors.

Beyond writing and producing, Eckstein was also active as a mentor and educator. He led screenwriting workshops and worked with aspiring writers, sharing his experience and passion for storytelling.

Death and Legacy

Paul Eckstein passed away on June 6, 2023, at the age of 59 while in Jamaica, where he was conducting a screenwriting workshop. His death marked a significant loss to the television and theater communities.

Eckstein is remembered for his versatility as an actor and writer, his commitment to mentoring emerging talent, and his contributions to some of the most respected television dramas of his time. His work continues to resonate through the stories he helped bring to the screen and the creative communities he supported.