'The Wire' Actor Isiah Whitlock Jr. Dies at 71; Spike Lee, David Simon Pay Tribute

• Isiah Whitlock Jr., known for 'The Wire' (Clay Davis) and 'Veep' (George Maddox), passed away at 71 in New York after a short illness.
• He appeared in five films directed by Spike Lee, who described him as a "beautiful, beautiful soul" and "hilarious."
• Whitlock's iconic catchphrase "sheee-it" originated in Spike Lee's 'The 25th Hour' and became famous on 'The Wire.'
• 'The Wire' creator David Simon praised Whitlock as "as fine an actor as he was, Isiah was an even better spirit and the greatest gentleman."
• A native of South Bend, Indiana, Whitlock also had roles in 'Goodfellas,' 'Gremlins 2,' and 'Cagney and Lacy.'

Why It Matters: Beloved actor Isiah Whitlock Jr., known for 'The Wire' and Spike Lee films, dies at 71, leaving a legacy of talent and kindness.