American actor Isiah Whitlock Jr., best known for his role as corrupt politician Clay Davis on HBO’s The Wire and appearances in numerous Spike Lee films, died at age 71 on Tuesday, his manager confirmed, reports AFP.
Whitlock, who appeared in over 125 films and TV shows, also had notable roles in the political satire Veep and early films like Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas. He brought his deep baritone voice to animated features including Pixar’s Lightyear and Cars 3. Spike Lee called him “My Dear Beloved Brother” on social media.
Born in Indiana as the middle child in a family of ten, Whitlock studied drama at Southwest State University and the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco. Fans will remember him most for his portrayal of Clay Davis, whose signature drawn-out catchphrase, “sheeeee-it,” became iconic in The Wire.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
