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Tributes are pouring in for Isiah Whitlock Jr., the late actor best known for his role on HBO’s The Wire.
According to Variety, Whitlock's manager, Brian Liebman, said the 71-year-old actor passed away peacefully in New York on Tuesday (December 30) after a brief illness.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of a member of our family, Isiah Whitlock Jr.,” Liebman Entertainment said in a statement posted to Instagram. “He will be deeply missed for his zest for life and the unforgettable presence he brought to the screen. May his talent and legacy always be remembered.”
Whitlock built a career spanning more than three decades across television, film, and theater. He made his first notable TV appearance in 1987 on Cagney & Lacey and went on to hold guest and recurring roles on series including Law & Order, CSI, ER, The Good Wife, Veep, and Your Honor.
Whitlock's portrayal of corrupt Maryland state Sen. Clay Davis on The Wire cemented his television legacy as he appeared in all five seasons of the hit series. In film, Whitlock was a frequent collaborator with director Spike Lee, appearing in 25th Hour, BlacKkKlansman, Da 5 Bloods, and more.
Whitlock’s death came just days after the passing of former The Wire co-star James Ransone.
Actor Wendell Pierce, who also starred in the HBO series, mourned the loss of Whitlock, calling him “a master of language and character."
Clarke Peters described him as “one of the greats,” noting that his portrayal of Clay Davis “set a standard for what television acting could be.”
Lee also paid tribute to the late actor, calling him “an essential part of my cinematic family.”
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