Lance Reddick, best known for his roles on HBO’s Oz and The Wire, as well as the Continental Hotel’s concierge Charon in the John Wick franchise, has died unexpectedly at the age of 60. He is survived by his wife, Stephanie Reddick, and his children, Yvonne Nicole and Christopher.

A bald man with glasses wearing a suit with a tie, Lance Reddick as John Wick's Charon
Lionsgate

TMZ first reported Reddick passed away at his Studio City home in Los Angeles. A representative for the actor from Portrait PR confirmed Reddick’s passing and said it was due to natural causes. The sad news comes one week before the theatrical release of John Wick: Chapter 4. The movie will mark Reddick’s fourth turn as the loyal, steely-eyed Continental employee who often took care of John Wick’s dogs.

Born on June 7, 1962 in Baltimore, Charon was just one of the many memorable roles Reddick played during his long career on screen, which began in 1996. Most notably he also starred as the undercover cop-turned-killer John Basil on Oz. His most famous role also took place on HBO which brought him back to his hometown. Reddick excelled as the wise, incorruptible police officer Cedric Daniels on The Wire.

Reddick also played Irvin Irving for 68 episodes on Bosch. His guest starring cameos are too many to list. But it includes hits such as Lost, Fringe, The Blacklist, Rick and Morty, and Castlevania. In addition to his well-known dramatic acting chops, Reddick also got to show just how talented he was as Christian DeVille on the sitcom Corporate.

Reddick’s place in both television and movie history are secure. And not just because fans will always remember and celebrate him for his most famous roles. He could express more meaning with just a stoic look than many performers can with entire monologues. It’s why he made every film and television show he ever appeared on better.