Cathey's death was announced via Twitter by "The Wire" creator, David Simon, Friday night. "Reg Cathey, 1958-2018. Not only a fine, masterful actor -- but simply one of the most delightful human beings with whom I ever shared some long days on set. On wit alone, he could double any man over and leave him thinking. Reg, your memory is a great blessing", said Simon.
Netflix also released a statement, saying, "Reg was the kindest man, the most giving actor, a true gentleman. Our sympathy goes to his family,"
Born in Huntsville, Alabama, Cathey became interested in acting at the age of 9. He was born into a military family and had attended a USO show in West Germany, where his family was living at the time. He went on to attend the University of Michigan and the Yale School of Drama.
Aside from "House of Cards" and "The Wire", Cathey starred in numerous projects over the years, including "Oz", "Law and Order", "30 Rock", "Grimm" and "Fantastic Four".
There's no word yet on the cause of death.
