Devin Lee Harjes, an actor known for his roles in TV series such as “Boardwalk Empire,” “Daredevil,” and “Gotham,” passed away on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Mount Sinai West Hospital in New York City. He was 41 years old.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Harjes succumbed to an illness after being diagnosed with cancer in February. He had been contending with the disease for several months before his passing.

Born on July 29, 1983, in Lubbock, Texas, Harjes developed an early interest in acting despite a background surrounded by horses and animals. He moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting, initially working on student films, off-Broadway productions, and independent films.

Harjes earned recognition in television by portraying boxer Jack Dempsey in HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire.” He also appeared in Marvel’s “Daredevil” as Oscar, a nurse at Rikers Island, and as Clyde, a bank guard, in DC’s “Gotham.”

Recently, he was seen as Pete Baylor in seasons two and three of NBC’s “Manifest.” His extensive TV credits also include appearances in “Orange Is the New Black,” “Blue Bloods,” “FBI,” and “Elementary.”

In film, Harjes appeared in “Rebel in the Rye,” “Boyz of Summer,” “The Forest Is Red,” “When the Shadow Falls,” and “Surprise Surprise, Mr. Conovy.” He received an Honorable Mention for Best Supporting Actor at the Long Island International Film Expo for his performance in 2012’s “Boyz of Summer.”

Antonio DiFonzo, director and writer of “Boyz of Summer,” paid tribute to Harjes on social media. DiFonzo described him as someone who was dedicated to self-improvement and committed to his work.

According to his website obituary, Harjes had an early connection to horses and open plains, as noted by the fact that just three days after he was born, his father carried him and his sister on horseback. Outside of acting, he was a martial arts student and gym regular, often joking that it was safer than being kicked by a horse.

Harjes began his career in the Dallas-Fort Worth theater scene before relocating to New York City. He advanced through off-Broadway productions and student films before securing television roles that defined his career.

He is survived by his parents, Randy and Rosanne Harjes; his sister and her husband, Trish Harjes and Justin Kelley; nephews Tristin and Sawyer Kelley; nieces Rory and Charly Kelley; his ex-wife and “Gotham” actress, Shiva Shobitha Kalaiselvan; and his cat, Maude.

Family and friends have shared personal photographs on Harjes’ website and, instead of flowers, have requested donations be made to TKC Blessings in his name. The proceeds will support scholarships for children pursuing the arts.

The entertainment industry has lost a versatile performer who contributed to multiple television genres, spanning period dramas, superhero series, and procedural shows. Harjes’ career, which lasted over a decade, earned him a reputation as a reliable character actor, known for adding depth to supporting roles.

His work in both Marvel and DC television properties showcased his adaptability to different storytelling styles and character types. His portrayal of historical figure Jack Dempsey, along with various working-class characters, highlighted his range throughout his career.