Isiah Whitlock Jr., a versatile actor with a career spanning three decades, has become uniquely synonymous with his distinctive, drawn-out catchphrase, “sheeeeeeeeeit.” This memorable expression has transcended multiple film roles and his iconic character State Senator Clay Davis in HBO’s *The Wire*, even becoming a lucrative side business with talking bobbleheads. Whitlock Jr. embraces being known as “the ‘sheeeeeeeeeit’ guy,” noting that “it makes people happy!” despite its impact on one of his relationships.

Beyond his famous catchphrase, Whitlock Jr. has established himself as a reliable and versatile actor. His breakthrough performance as the smooth-talking shyster Clay Davis in *The Wire* was followed by recurring roles in series like *Rubicon*, *Veep*, and numerous appearances across the *Law & Order* franchise. He has also been a regular collaborator with director Spike Lee, working on films from *25th Hour* (2002) to *Da 5 Bloods* (last year). More recently, he concluded his run on Showtime’s miniseries *Your Honor* and portrayed the flummoxed Judge Lomax in J. Blakeson’s *I Care A Lot* (2021).

In *I Care A Lot*, Whitlock Jr.’s character, Judge Lomax, represents a “good” but ultimately clueless figure in a deeply cynical film. Whitlock Jr. was drawn to the role due to the movie’s exploration of critical subject matter, specifically the manipulation and potential loss of assets within assisted living-type situations. He emphasized the alarming reality depicted in the film, drawing parallels to a friend’s similar experience. He believes the movie effectively "lifts the veil" on these issues, urging people to seriously consider what can happen if circumstances align unfavorably. While the film incorporates dark comedic elements, the underlying subject matter resonated with him as very serious and real, aligning with contemporary discussions around similar themes, such as The New York Times’ documentary on Britney Spears.

Whitlock Jr. highlighted how HIPAA laws, designed for protection, can be manipulated, leading to individuals losing everything and being effectively "wiped off the map." He finds this prospect frightening both in real life and in the film. He also praised his co-star Rosamund Pike, who anchors the movie as its antagonist, for her professionalism and solid acting, which pushed him to give more to his own performance. Working with such dedicated actors, he noted, forces him to be involved in ways he might not have previously considered, making the experience a delight.