Isiah Whitlock Jr., a renowned actor known for his roles in the HBO series “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, confirmed by his manager Brian Liebman. Whitlock notably portrayed the openly corrupt state Sen. Clay Davis in 25 episodes of “The Wire,” where he gained popularity for his signature catchphrase, “sheee-it.”
Spike Lee expressed his deep sadness over Whitlock’s passing, emphasizing the significant loss to the industry. The actor collaborated with Lee in five films, starting with “The 25th Hour” in 2002, where he first introduced the iconic catchphrase. Lee fondly recalled their strong bond over the years, highlighting their exceptional working relationship.
Aside from “The Wire,” Whitlock also showcased his talent in other Lee films such as “She Hate Me,” “Red Hook Summer,” “Chi-Raq,” “BlacKkKlansman,” and “Da 5 Bloods.” Lee reminisced about their time together filming “Da 5 Bloods” in Thailand, praising Whitlock’s infectious positivity and comedic prowess both on and off the screen.
Whitlock’s passing marks another loss for “The Wire” family following the recent death of actor James Ransone. Originally from South Bend, Ind., Whitlock’s journey into acting began after studying theater in college and transitioning from football due to injuries. His career took off with guest roles on TV shows like “Cagney and Lacy” before landing small roles in films like “Goodfellas” and “Gremlins 2: The New Batch.”
After his success on “The Wire,” Whitlock joined the cast of “Veep” as Secretary of Defense George Maddox, showcasing his versatility and talent in a different genre. His manager, Liebman, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, describing Whitlock as a brilliant actor and an exceptional individual, deeply cherished by those who knew him.
David Simon, the creator of “The Wire,” also honored Whitlock’s memory, acknowledging not only his acting prowess but also his remarkable character and gentlemanly nature. Whitlock’s legacy in the entertainment industry lives on through his unforgettable performances and the positive impact he had on those around him.