Isiah Whitlock Jr., a renowned actor known for his roles in HBO’s The Wire and Veep, as well as in several Spike Lee films, passed away at the age of 71 in New York after a brief illness, according to his manager Brian Liebman. Whitlock portrayed the corrupt state Sen. Clay Davis on 25 episodes of The Wire, where he famously delivered the catchphrase “sheee-it.” This catchphrase became a signature of his character and was first introduced in the film The 25th Hour in 2002.
Spike Lee, who worked closely with Whitlock on five films, including She Hate Me, Red Hook Summer, Chi-Raq, BlacKkKlansman, and Da 5 Bloods, expressed his deep sorrow over Whitlock’s passing, highlighting their strong bond over the years. Lee fondly recalled their time filming Da 5 Bloods in Thailand and their recent encounter at a screening of Kiss of the Spider Woman.
Described as a “beautiful soul” by Lee, Whitlock’s comedic talent and ability to bring joy to those around him were praised by many who worked with him. His role as Secretary of Defence George Maddox on Veep showcased his versatility as an actor beyond his iconic portrayal in The Wire. Whitlock’s manager, Liebman, also paid tribute to the actor on social media, remembering him as a “brilliant actor and even better person.”
Whitlock, originally from South Bend, Ind., began his acting career after studying theater and playing football at Southwest Minnesota State University. He appeared in various TV shows and films before gaining widespread recognition for his roles in acclaimed series and movies. Whitlock’s passing comes shortly after the death of another The Wire actor, James Ransone, adding to the recent losses in the entertainment industry.
Both fans and colleagues mourn the loss of Isiah Whitlock Jr., remembering him not only for his exceptional acting skills but also for his warm personality and infectious sense of humor. The legacy of his work and the impact he had on those around him will be cherished by many in the entertainment community.