Devin Harjes, the actor a lot of people might recognize from Boardwalk Empire or Daredevil, passed away on May 27, 2025. He was just 41. It’s heartbreaking to hear that he died from cancer, especially since the diagnosis only came a few months ago, in February. It’s just one of those stories that makes you stop for a second. One moment someone’s doing what they love—acting, building a career—and then suddenly, they’re gone. He passed away in New York City, at Mount Sinai West Hospital, and I think for fans and people in the industry, it’s really tough to believe.
The Roles People Remember Him For
Even if his name doesn’t immediately ring a bell, chances are you’ve seen Devin Harjes in something. He played Jack Dempsey in Boardwalk Empire, and that performance really stood out. He also showed up in shows like Daredevil, Manifest, Blue Bloods, Gotham, and Orange Is the New Black. He wasn’t a flashy actor, but he always left a strong impression. And apparently, he also acted in indie films—one of them, The Forest Is Red, even got him a Best Actor award at an international festival in Italy. That says a lot about the kind of talent he had. People who worked with him always said he was dedicated, super focused, and easy to be around.
Devin Harjes, 'Boardwalk Empire' and 'Manifest' star, dies at 41 https://t.co/574iHYroKJ
— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) June 1, 2025
Where He Came From and What He Loved
Devin was born in Lubbock, Texas, back in 1983. He started off in the Dallas–Fort Worth theater scene, which is where a lot of good actors come from, honestly. Eventually, he moved to New York to chase his dream. Apart from acting, he was really into martial arts and fitness. That side of him didn’t always show on screen, but it mattered to him personally. And he had a cat named Maude, who he apparently loved a lot. Sometimes it’s those small details that stick with you. You picture someone coming home from a shoot and just relaxing with their pet—that’s real life.
What His Family Wants People to Know
Devin’s family is, of course, grieving. He leaves behind his parents, Randy and Rosanne Harjes, his sister Trish, and his former wife, Shiva Shobitha. Instead of asking for flowers, the family has asked that people donate to TKC Blessings, a charity that helps kids in the arts. That kind of tells you what mattered to them—and probably to him too. Helping kids express themselves through art seems like something Devin would have supported.
Final Thoughts
There’s no sugarcoating this—41 is way too young. Devin Harjes had so much more to do and give, both on screen and off. Whether you knew him from a small part or watched him in a bigger role, he left something behind that people won’t forget soon. It’s sad. But there’s also something meaningful about the way people are talking about him now. With respect, with love, and with the kind of appreciation you hope to earn in your lifetime.
