Isiah Whitlock Jr., famed for his role as Clay Davis on ‘The Wire’ and numerous Spike Lee films, has passed away at the age of 71.
LOS ANGELES: American actor Isiah Whitlock Jr. has died at the age of 71.
His manager, Brian Liebman, confirmed the news on Tuesday via social media.
“It is with tremendous sadness that I share the passing of my dear friend and client Isiah Whitlock Jr.,” Liebman wrote.
Whitlock was best known for his role as the corrupt politician Clay Davis on the HBO crime drama “The Wire.”
Series creator David Simon posted a tribute image of the smiling actor following news of his death.
Whitlock’s career included roles in numerous films directed by Spike Lee.
His credits with Lee include “BlacKkKlansman,” “Da 5 Bloods,” and “Chi-Raq.”
Lee shared a photo of them holding hands, calling Whitlock “My Dear Beloved Brother.”
The actor also portrayed the US Secretary of Defense on the satirical comedy series “Veep.”
One of his earliest film roles was in Martin Scorsese’s classic “Goodfellas.”
He played a doctor who provides valium to mobster Henry Hill in the 1990 film.
Whitlock’s deep baritone voice featured in animated projects like Pixar’s “Lightyear” and “Cars 3.”
Born in Indiana, he was a middle child in a family of ten.
He studied drama at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco after graduating from Southwest State University.
Whitlock accumulated more than 125 acting credits throughout his decades-long career.
