Isiah Whitlock Jr, the American actor best known for his role as corrupt politician Clay Davis on the HBO drama The Wire, has died at the age of 71. His manager, Brian Liebman, announced the news on social media, stating, 'It is with tremendous sadness that I share the passing of my dear friend and client Isiah Whitlock Jr. If you knew him – you loved him. A brilliant actor and even better person.'
Whitlock's portrayal of Clay Davis on The Wire became iconic, particularly for his character's drawn-out catchphrase 'sheeeee-it.' The show's creator, David Simon, posted an image of Whitlock in tribute following the news of his death.
Over his decades-long career, Whitlock amassed more than 125 acting credits. He frequently collaborated with director Spike Lee, appearing in films such as She Hate Me, 25th Hour, Red Hook Summer, Chi-Raq, BlacKkKlansman, and Da 5 Bloods. Lee shared a photo of himself holding hands with Whitlock, calling him 'My Dear Beloved Brother.'
Whitlock also played the US Secretary of Defence on the satirical comedy series Veep. One of his earliest film roles was in Martin Scorsese's Goodfellas, where he played a doctor providing Valium to mobster Henry Hill. His deep baritone voice was featured in animated projects including Pixar's Lightyear and Cars 3.
Born in Indiana as the middle child in a family of 10, Whitlock's father worked in a steel mill. He graduated from Southwest State University and studied drama at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco.
