Isiah Whitlock Jr., a renowned actor known for his roles in HBO’s hit series “The Wire” and “Veep,” as well as multiple Spike Lee films, passed away at the age of 71 in New York after a short illness. Whitlock portrayed the corrupt state Sen. Clay Davis in 25 episodes of “The Wire,” captivating audiences with his iconic catchphrase, “sheee-it.” This catchphrase originated in Lee’s 2002 film “The 25th Hour.”
Spike Lee expressed his deep sorrow over Whitlock’s passing, emphasizing the significant loss the industry has suffered. Whitlock collaborated with Lee on five films, creating a strong bond over the years. Lee fondly recalled their time filming “Da 5 Bloods” in Thailand and cherished memories of their last meeting at a movie screening earlier this year.
Known for his comedic talent, Whitlock brought laughter both on and off the screen. His infectious humor and kind personality endeared him to all who worked with him. Whitlock’s passing follows the recent death of James Ransone, another standout star from “The Wire.”
Originally from South Bend, Indiana, Whitlock’s acting journey began after pursuing theater studies in college. He transitioned from small television roles to feature films like “Goodfellas” and “Gremlins 2: The New Batch.” Following his success on “The Wire,” Whitlock joined the cast of “Veep” as Secretary of Defence George Maddox, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
His manager, Brian Liebman, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, describing Whitlock as a brilliant actor and an exceptional human being loved by all who knew him. David Simon, the creator of “The Wire,” also honored Whitlock’s memory, praising his remarkable talent and remarkable character as a person.
The entertainment industry mourns the loss of Isiah Whitlock Jr., a talented actor whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
