The actor, also famous for his role in the action movies "John Wick" with Keanu Reeves, was found dead at his home in Los Angeles, in the Studio City district, according to the specialized site TMZ.
Reddick died "this morning" and the cause of death is "natural," his agent, Mia Hansen, told AFP. "Lance will be greatly missed," she added.
The actor made a name for himself in Hollywood in 2000, thanks to the HBO series "Oz". He played a detective infiltrated in prison to fight drug trafficking, which quickly sinks into addiction.
But it was with "The Wire" that he really broke through. Often described as one of the best television series of all time, it followed the fight of a drug police squad against Baltimore City gangs.
Lance Reddick played Lieutenant Cedric Daniels, a conscientious officer and a bit idealistic.
"The Wire" made several of its stars famous, including Idris Elba and Michael Kenneth Williams, who died in 2021 and is widely regarded for his character of Omar Little, a gay thug who applies a strict code of conduct.
Lance Reddick was married to Stephanie Reddick and had two children, according to his agent.
Several celebrities paid tribute to him on Friday.
Wendell Pierce, another star of "The Wire," described him on Twitter as "a man of great strength and grace. The embodiment of class."
His death is a "sudden, unexpected and painful grief for our artistic family," he added.
"Wonderful actor, wonderful man. It's sad news," said writer Stephen King, adding that he was reviewing the series "The Wire".
HBO praised an actor "held in high esteem by all those who knew him and worked with him".
"We are proud to be part of his legacy. He will be greatly missed," she added.
His "John Wick" co-stars, Keanu Reeves and Chad Stahelski, also expressed grief.
"We are deeply saddened and heartbroken by the loss of our beloved friend and colleague," they said in a statement. "He was an accomplished professional and it was a pleasure to work with."
© 2023 AFP