‘Good Burger’ Villain Jan Schwieterman Passes at 52 – A Nostalgic Loss for ’90s Kids
Hollywood has lost another familiar face. Jan Schwieterman, the actor who played the conniving Kurt Bozwell in Nickelodeon’s cult classic Good Burger, has passed away at 52. His family confirmed that he succumbed to an aggressive Stage 4 cancer on February 28 at Mercy Hospital in Washington, Missouri.
For ’90s kids and Nickelodeon fans, Schwieterman’s portrayal of Bozwell—the shady, power-hungry owner of Mondo Burger—remains a defining piece of childhood nostalgia. Good Burger, the 1997 film starring Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell, was an extension of the beloved All That skit and a cornerstone of Nickelodeon’s golden era. Schwieterman’s over-the-top villainy added an unforgettable layer of comedy and chaos to the film, making him one of the most iconic antagonists of ’90s family movies.
Born on September 30, 1972, in Bluffton, Indiana, Schwieterman’s journey into acting began after moving to California post-high school. His early career saw guest roles in hit series like ER and Felicity, with Good Burger cementing his place in pop culture history. He later appeared in films such as Warlock III: The End of Innocence (1999) and Fallen Arches (2000), before stepping away from the industry, making his last credited appearance in 2007’s Along the Way.
While his Hollywood journey was relatively brief, Schwieterman remained beloved by those who remembered his roles. His family shared that he was an avid traveler and a passionate Dungeons & Dragons enthusiast, showing a side of him that many fans never got to see.
Schwieterman is survived by his parents, Clara and LeeRoy, his brother Chad, and his sisters Megan and Vanessa. Fans looking to honor his memory can make donations to the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.
Is Nickelodeon’s Golden Era Fading Away? Schwieterman’s passing feels like another nail in the coffin of an era many still cherish. With classic Nickelodeon stars growing older and beloved films from the ’90s now over two decades old, is Hollywood doing enough to preserve and celebrate this nostalgia? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
