Lance Reddick of “The Wire” and “John Wick” franchise dies at 60
Lance Reddick, a renowned character actor famous for his intense, icy, and often sinister roles in TV and film, including “The Wire,” “Fringe,” and the “John Wick” franchise, passed away at the age of 60. According to his publicist, Mia Hansen, Reddick died suddenly on Friday morning due to natural causes, although no further details were provided.
His co-star on “The Wire,” Wendell Pierce, paid tribute to Reddick on Twitter, calling him “a man of great strength and grace,” who was “as talented a musician as he was an actor” and “the epitome of class.” Director Chad Stahelski and star Keanu Reeves dedicated the upcoming “John Wick – Chapter Four” to Reddick and expressed their deep sadness and heartbreak at his loss.
Throughout his career, Reddick was often seen in suits or crisp uniforms, portraying tall, elegant, and taciturn men of distinction. He is best known for his role as Lt. Cedric Daniels on the hit HBO series “The Wire,” where his character was caught up in the messy politics of the Baltimore police department.
David Simon, the creator of “The Wire,” praised Reddick on Twitter, describing him as a “consummate professional, devoted collaborator, lovely and gentle man, loyal friend.” Reddick’s performance as Lt. Daniels was considered to be one of the highlights of the show’s five-season run.
In addition to “The Wire,” Reddick starred in several other popular TV shows, including Fox’s “Fringe,” “Lost,” “Intelligence,” “American Horror Story,” and “Bosch.” He also earned a SAG Award nomination in 2021 for his role in Regina King’s film “One Night in Miami.”
Reddick’s recent projects include Lionsgate’s “John Wick” franchise, where he played the multi-skilled Continental Hotel concierge Charon, and the upcoming 20th Century remake of “White Men Can’t Jump” and Netflix’s biopic of former Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, “Shirley.”
Reddick was a graduate of Yale University drama school and landed several guest or recurring roles on shows such as “CSI: Miami” and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” after school. He also appeared in several movies, including “I Dreamed of Africa,” “The Siege,” and “Great Expectations.”
Lance Reddick’s sudden death has left a deep void in the entertainment industry, and his contributions to film and television will be greatly missed.
Photo Credit: Lance Reddick Facebook