Dan Ziskie, famed for his roles in House of Cards and Treme, has died at 80. Beloved for his commanding screen presence, the actor leaves a lasting legacy
Veteran actor Dan Ziskie, known for his compelling portrayals of political figures in House of Cards and Treme, has passed away at the age of 80.
His family confirmed that he died on July 21 in New York City due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease .
Born in Detroit in 1944, Ziskie’s journey to the screen was anything but conventional. Before stepping into the limelight, he was a college athlete, a freighter crewman, and even a journalist.
His acting career began at Chicago’s Second City, where he honed his craft alongside comedic legends like John Belushi. He later moved to New York, making his Broadway debut in 1980 and appearing in productions such as Morning’s at Seven, I’m Not Rappaport, and After the Fall .
Ziskie’s television career was marked by roles that showcased his versatility. He portrayed Vice President Jim Matthews in the early seasons of House of Cards and financier C.J. Liguori in HBO’s Treme.
His other notable television appearances include Law & Order, The Blacklist, Sex and the City, and Chappelle’s Show . On the big screen, he appeared in films such as The Jackal, War of the Worlds, and portrayed NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue in the 2015 film Concussion .
Beyond acting, Ziskie was an accomplished photographer. His work was featured in major publications, and he published a photo book titled Cloud Chamber in 2017 .
He is survived by his brother David, sister-in-law Cynthia, and their children. His family described him as “a man of remarkable talent and a keen observer of life,” adding that he was “as vibrant and multifaceted as the characters he portrayed on stage and screen” .
Dan Ziskie’s passing marks the end of an era for fans of television dramas. His portrayals of powerful figures left an indelible mark on the industry, and he will be remembered for his dedication to his craft and the depth he brought to every role.
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