Isiah Whitlock Jr., the actor best known for his iconic role as Clay Davis in the acclaimed TV series The Wire and for his frequent collaborations with director Spike Lee, has passed away at the age of 71.
The news of his death was confirmed by his manager, Brian Liebman, who shared the announcement on Instagram. According to Liebman, Whitlock Jr. died peacefully in New York after a short illness.
“He was loved by everyone who had the pleasure of working with him or knowing him. He will be deeply missed,” his manager said.
“May his memory forever be a blessing. Our hearts are broken. He will be greatly missed.”
A Career Spanning Nearly Four Decades
Isiah Whitlock Jr. was born in South Bend and began his acting career in San Francisco. He landed his first notable role in 1987 in the television series Cagney & Lacey.
Over nearly four decades in the industry, Whitlock Jr. appeared in numerous popular television series, including Law & Order, Veep, Your Honor, and most recently the Netflix series The Residence.
Beloved for his commanding screen presence and distinctive voice, Isiah Whitlock Jr. leaves behind a powerful legacy in television and film. His performances — especially as the unforgettable Clay Davis — remain etched in the memory of audiences worldwide.
