On Sunday December 17, actor James McCaffrey died of causes related to his cancer diagnosis of multiple myeloma, TMZ reports. McCaffrey was 65. Most recognized for playing the voice of Max Payne in the Remedy Entertainment and Rockstar Games Max Payne video game series, the actor passed away in the company of loved ones.
Actor Kevin Dillon paid tribute to McCaffrey on his Instagram account, writing, “James McCaffrey we were lucky to have known you. My best friend you will be missed.” Brother and fellow actor Matt Dillon followed up in the comments, posting, “pure class.” With an entertainment career spanning more than three decades, McCaffrey played roles in various film and television projects including, “Blue Bloods,” “Suits,” “Revenge,” “She’s Gotta Have It,” “Law and Order: SVU,” and most notably, “Rescue Me,” on which he appeared in more than 50 episodes over the course of seven years. “One of Dick Wolf’s proteges, McCaffrey went on to a successful 35 year career in television and film. Trained at the Actor’s Studio, he never lost his love for creating characters…” McCaffrey’s rep noted in a public statement.
What is multiple myeloma?
Multiple myeloma, or tumors of the plasma cells, is a type of cancer more commonly seen in men and those over the age of 45, reports the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Plasma cells are located in the body’s bone marrow and are responsible for producing infection-fighting antibodies. In cases of multiple myeloma, however, the rapid growth of abnormal cells overtakes that of healthy plasma cells. Those with the disease are not always symptomatic, making it difficult to diagnose. Symptoms may emerge in the cancer’s later stages to include bone pain, breakages, unexplained fever, difficulty breathing, bruising, bleeding, or weakness in the extremities, amongst other symptoms.
According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 35,730 American adults are estimated to be affected by multiple myeloma in 2023. Surgery and radiation therapy may be used to treat earlier stages of the disease. Other treatment methods include drug therapy, stem cell transplant, CAR T-cell therapy, or various supportive treatments to help alleviate symptoms and prioritize patient comfort.
