Actor Isiah Whitlock Jr., Master of a Memorable Catchphrase, Dies at 71

Isiah Whitlock Jr., the character actor famous for his role on "The Wire," has died. He was 71. The news was confirmed by his agent. The cause of death was not immediately released. Whitlock was best known for playing corrupt Maryland State Senator Clay Davis on the acclaimed HBO drama. He delivered the role with a sly charm. His performance made a single, drawn-out word—a profane expression of disbelief—unforgettable to audiences. He turned that catchphrase into his signature. He used it again in films like "BlacKkKlansman" and on the HBO comedy "Veep." Beyond that famous line, Whitlock built a long career in television and film. His credits include "The Good Wife," "She Hate Me," and "Cedar Rapids." He recently appeared in the Netflix series "The School for Good and Evil." Fans and colleagues remember him as a skilled and versatile performer. He could shift from drama to comedy with ease.