Isiah Whitlock Jr., the acclaimed actor known for his iconic roles in HBO’s “The Wire” and “Veep,” passed away on March 15, 2024, at the age of 71. Whitlock’s manager, Brian Liebman, confirmed in an email to The Associated Press that the actor died in New York following a short illness.
Whitlock gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of the corrupt state Senator Clay Davis on “The Wire,” which aired for five seasons. Over the course of 25 episodes, Whitlock brought to life a character beloved by fans, known for the memorable catchphrase “sheee-it.” He first used this line in his collaboration with director Spike Lee in the 2002 film “The 25th Hour,” marking the beginning of a fruitful partnership that would span several films.
Tributes Pour In from Friends and Colleagues
Following the news of his passing, Lee expressed his deep sorrow in a phone conversation with the Associated Press. “It’s a big, big, big loss,” he remarked. Lee emphasized the personal connection he shared with Whitlock, recalling their time spent together on the set of “Da 5 Bloods” in Thailand. “We vibed over all those years,” Lee stated.
Whitlock’s contributions to cinema extended beyond “The Wire.” He appeared in four other Spike Lee films: “She Hate Me” (2004), “Red Hook Summer” (2012), “Chi-Raq” (2015), and “BlacKkKlansman” (2018), as well as “Da 5 Bloods” (2020). Lee fondly remembered their last encounter during a screening of “Kiss of the Spider Woman.”
Describing Whitlock as “a beautiful, beautiful soul,” Lee highlighted his ability to uplift those around him. “He made everybody feel good in his presence,” Lee reflected, adding, “He was hilarious. That was just his nature; he made people laugh.”
A Lasting Impact on Television and Film
Whitlock’s career began in small television roles in the late 1980s, including appearances on shows like “Cagney and Lacey.” His film career took off with brief roles in notable films such as “Goodfellas” and “Gremlins 2: The New Batch.”
After the success of “The Wire,” he transitioned to another acclaimed HBO series, “Veep,” where he portrayed Secretary of Defense George Maddox for three seasons. This character frequently clashed with Selina Meyer, played by Julia Louis-Dreyfus, during presidential primaries, showcasing Whitlock’s comedic talent.
David Simon, the creator of “The Wire,” also paid tribute to Whitlock, stating, “As fine an actor as he was, Isiah was an even better spirit and the greatest gentleman.”
Whitlock, a native of South Bend, Indiana, studied theater at Southwest Minnesota State University, where he played football before turning to acting. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated actor is a testament to his talent and determination.
The loss of Isiah Whitlock Jr. is felt deeply by his colleagues and fans alike, leaving a legacy of memorable performances and cherished memories. His influence on television and film will not be forgotten, and his catchphrase will resonate with audiences for years to come.
