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LOS ANGELES — Actor Reg E. Cathey, who played Freddy on "House of Cards" and appeared in "The Wire," has died. He was 59.

Known for his distinctive baritone voice, Reginald Eugene Cathey began acting in 1984 in a television movie called "A Doctor's Story." He guest starred on numerous television shows, playing Norman Wilson in seasons four and five of "The Wire" as well as in "Grimm," "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," "House of Cards," and drama "Outcast."

Cathey won an Emmy for outstanding guest actor in a drama series in 2015 for his work on "House of Cards." He was previously nominated in 2014 and received another nomination in 2016 for the same role.

Shattered at the loss of Reg E. Cathey! Brilliant actor, humorist & friend! Irreplaceable! The ancestors about to be challenged!! — Samuel L. Jackson (@SamuelLJackson) February 10, 2018

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"We are heartbroken by the passing of our friend and House of Cards colleague Reg E. Cathey," said Netflix in a statement. "Reg was the kindest man, the most giving actor, a true gentlemen. Our sympathy goes to his family."

In 2017, he appeared in the biography "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" starring Oprah Winfrey.

"The Wire" creator David Simon first reported his death.

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. pic.twitter.com/OHEUbAhTg0 — David Simon (@AoDespair) February 9, 2018

Cathey also appeared in Jim Carrey and Cameron Diaz's "The Mask" and the 2015 "Fantastic Four" reboot as the father of Michael B. Jordan's character. He most recently starred in films "Flock of Four" and "Tyrel." In David Fincher's "Seven," he played the coroner.

Children of the late 80s and 90s will also remember him from the math-based kids show "Square One."

Born in Alabama, he graduated from J.O. Johnson High School where he acted in the play "To Kill a Mockingbird." He also attended the University of Michigan and the Yale School of Drama. He joined the theater world in 2009 to play Ellis Boyd "Red" Redding in London production of "The Shawshank Redemption."

Several actors and TV creators remembered Cathey on Twitter, including, Samuel Jackson, Bobby Cannavale and Jeffrey Wright.