Veteran television and film actor Reg E. Cathey thrilled audiences as Norman Wilson on HBO’s popular drama The Wire, and later as a member Netflix’s House Cards cast. Cathey died Friday after a reported battle with lung cancer.

TMZ reports:

The beloved actor passed away at his home in New York, surrounded by friends and family. We’re told he’d been battling lung cancer.

Reg played Freddy, owner Francis Underwood’s fave BBQ joint on “House Cards.” The role earned him the Emmy for Outstanding Guest in 2015.

He also famously played the mayor’s aide, Norman Wilson, on several seasons “The Wire.”

The Huntsville, Alabama native got his start in the 1980s, starring in a variety small roles that stood out due to his commanding presence. The University Michigan and Yale School Drama graduate also played Dr. Franklin Storm, the father The Human Torch and the Invisible Girl in 2015’s Fantastic Four.

Cathey was 59.

—

Photo: WENN.com