Isiah Whitlock Jr., the actor celebrated for his portrayal of corrupt senator Clay Davis on HBO's 'The Wire'—famous for his drawn-out 'sh**t'—has died at age 71. He passed away on December 30, 2025, in New York following a short illness, his manager confirmed. 'A brilliant actor and even better person,' Brian Liebman said.
Isiah Whitlock Jr. died Tuesday, December 30, 2025, in New York, his manager Brian Liebman announced via Instagram and Deadline. Liebman wrote: "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. May his memory forever be a blessing."
Whitlock's four-decade career featured memorable supporting roles across film and television. He debuted with an episode of 'Cagney & Lacey' in 1985, followed by appearances in 'Goodfellas' and 'Law & Order.' Breakthrough fame came as state senator Clay Davis on 'The Wire' (2002–2008), where his elongated delivery of 'sh**t' became iconic.
He continued with HBO's 'Veep' as Secretary of Defense George Maddox and Showtime's 'Your Honor' as politician Charlie Figaro opposite Bryan Cranston. On FX's 'Atlanta,' he played Raleigh, father to lead character Earn. Other TV included 'The Good Cop.'
A frequent Spike Lee collaborator, Whitlock appeared in '25th Hour' (2002)—introducing his signature phrase—'BlacKkKlansman,' 'Chi-Raq,' and 'Da 5 Bloods' (2020). Earlier in 2025, he starred as police chief Larry Dokes in Netflix's 'The Residence.' He also has a posthumous voice role in the upcoming Pixar/Disney film 'Hoppers,' set for March 2026.
Fans have paid tribute online, praising his versatility and catchphrase. Whitlock leaves a legacy of authoritative, nuanced characters in politics, crime, and comedy.
