Fans and celebrities reflect on legacy of Reg E. Cathey after news of his death
Fans and celebrities are mourning the loss of award-winning actor Reg E. Cathey after news of his death broke Friday night.
» RELATED: ‘House of Cards,' 'The Wire' actor Reg E. Cathey dead at 59
Born in Huntsville, Alabama, the stage, film and TV actor studied theater at the University of Michigan and Yale School of Drama. He gained recognition for his roles in "The Wire," "Oz" and "House of Cards," which earned him an Emmy.
He died at age 59 and was reportedly battling cancer.
As details regarding his death hit the internet, many flocked to social media to express their condolences and share their favorite memories of the famed trailblazer.
Several said they were shocked to hear about his passing. Not everyone knew he had been battling the illness.
Shocked to read Reg E Cathey has died, had the privilege of seeing him on stage in 09, was such an amazing actor
— James (@jaysmithy) February 10, 2018
Wow, Reg E. Cathey was an amazing actor. He brought life into his movie roles . So sad. Never knew he was sick. https://t.co/8glaADlSVY
— Michael Antonio 🗽 (@ChosenOneMike) February 10, 2018
I’m in the middle of an #Outcast binge with the amazing Reg E. Cathey. I can’t believe he’s gone! Had no clue he was sick; he has such towering strength onscreen. #RIP pic.twitter.com/9JiQCvZLfJ
— Portmanteau Jones (@SadlyCatless) February 10, 2018
Others complimented his work ethic, sharing how much they enjoyed him onscreen and on stage. They heralded him as a pioneer and legend in the industry.
So sad to hear actor Reg Cathey has passed away at only 59. 💔 Everyone knows my favorite show is House of Cards and his performance in the show was exceptional. #HouseofCards pic.twitter.com/3wlwN31pPM
— Hayden Ristevski (@HaydenWDRB) February 10, 2018
Reg Cathey was as impressive on stage as he was on screen. Rest in power! https://t.co/cCYOf3bsea
— Daralyn Jay (@DaralynJay) February 10, 2018
Rip Reg Cathey! Utter, utter legend who was too cool for this world.
— Natalie Fleming (@NTFleming) February 10, 2018
RIP Reg Cathey, a performer of immense gravity even when playing something as ridiculous as Dirty Dee.
— The Dread Pirate Steve Carlson (@LCosgrove) February 10, 2018
» RELATED: 5 things about Reg E. Cathey
A few praised him for his dedication to his craft, while also reflecting on his gentle spirit. Many called him “kind” and “generous.”
Had the pleasure of working with Reg E. Cathey coupla years ago. A lovely man, A generous artist. Kind, kind. A sweetheart of a man. Missing you. RIP. pic.twitter.com/c71VuylNQf
— Toby Huss (@tobyhuss) February 10, 2018
Reg Cathey was one of a kind. Brimming with life force, generosity, humor, gravitas and a fountain of talent. Loved by everyone lucky enough know him and work with him. He will be greatly missed.
— Beau Willimon (@BeauWillimon) February 9, 2018
Rest In Peace, Reg. pic.twitter.com/p9DXFgDevP
I worked with Reg once - one of my first plays, and he gave me a piece of advice that really stuck with me for some reason. No exaggeration, I think I've thought of him once on every job since. I guess it's impossible to predict one's impact. Thank you, Reg. https://t.co/Dw95BqOQIE
— John Cho (@JohnTheCho) February 10, 2018
A slew of celebrities chimed in, too, to write about how much they would miss him.
A Beautiful Talent left us for a more peaceful plane. Reg E. Cathey, true thespian, sage,… https://t.co/SGm9J2l9NK
— Samuel L. Jackson (@SamuelLJackson) February 10, 2018
RIP Reg E Cathey!!!
— Viola Davis (@violadavis) February 10, 2018
Reg E. Cathey has passed . RIP Dirty Dee. Great actor great Man. pic.twitter.com/EgvBPstSaI
— Chris Rock (@chrisrock) February 10, 2018
» RELATED: What's next for “House of Cards?”
About the Author
Najja Parker is a multimedia journalist covering Black culture for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. She is an engaging on-air talent, who has served as a host for the newsroom’s special projects and events, such as the movie premiere of “The South Got Something To Say,” a documentary chronicling the rise of Atlanta hip-hop.
