Jan Schwieterman, Good Burger Actor, Dies at 52 After Cancer Battle

BERGER, Mo. — Jan Patrick Schwieterman, known for his role as Kurt Bozwell in the 1997 Nickelodeon film Good Burger, passed away on February 28 after a brief but aggressive battle with stage 4 cancer. He was 52 years old.

Schwieterman’s brother, Chad Schwieterman, confirmed the news on Facebook, revealing that Jan had recently received his diagnosis. “It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my brother, Jan (JP) Schwieterman. He recently found out he had an aggressive form of stage 4 cancer and passed yesterday evening. Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this difficult time. Rest in peace, brother. We love you and miss you,” he wrote.

Born on September 30, 1972, in Bluffton, Indiana, Schwieterman moved to California after graduating high school to pursue an acting career. He made his television debut in 1994 with roles on ABC’s McKenna and NBC’s ER. His breakout role came in 1997 with Good Burger, where he played the villainous owner of Mondo Burger, a rival to the titular fast-food restaurant.

Good Burger, which starred Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell, became a cult classic, even inspiring a sequel released in 2023. Schwieterman’s portrayal of Bozwell left a lasting impression on fans. The film has remained relevant, with Mitchell noting its ongoing popularity, particularly among younger generations celebrating Good Burger-themed birthday parties.

In addition to Good Burger, Schwieterman’s filmography includes roles in Warlock III: The End of Innocence, Fallen Arches, and several television shows such as Forever and Felicity. His last credited role was in the 2007 indie film Along the Way.

Outside of acting, Schwieterman was an avid traveler who enjoyed photography and painting. He held the rank of Eagle Scout, showcasing his diverse interests and talents. His family fondly remembered his love for Dungeons and Dragons and martial arts.

Schwieterman is survived by his parents, Clara and LeeRoy Schwieterman; his siblings, Megan, Vanessa, and Chad; and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service was held on March 4 in his hometown, where family and friends gathered to honor his memory.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jan Schwieterman‘s memory can be made to the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas.