James McCaffrey, best known for his voice portrayal of Max Payne in the renowned video game series and his role in the TV series “Rescue Me,” died at the age of 65. His passing was confirmed by his wife, actress Rochelle Boström.
Multiple sources have reported that McCaffrey’s death was due to multiple myeloma, a cancer affecting the bone marrow and white blood cells. He died at his home in Larchmont, New York, on Sunday, December 17, in the company of family and friends.
Actor Kevin Dillon, a friend of McCaffrey, paid tribute to him on social media, sharing his sorrow and admiration for the late actor. Denis Leary, who worked with McCaffrey on “Rescue Me,” also expressed his condolences online.
McCaffrey had a distinguished career in the entertainment industry, spanning over 35 years. He was a familiar face in television, with significant roles in “New York Undercover,” “Viper,” “Sex and the City,” “Suits,” “Blue Bloods,” “As the World Turns,” and “Jessica Jones.” His portrayal of Jimmy Keefe in “Rescue Me” remains his most notable role. Keefe, a firefighter who died on 9/11 and appeared as a ghost to his cousin Tommy Gavin, played by Denis Leary, was a poignant and recurring character throughout the show’s seven seasons.
McCaffrey’s voice role as Max Payne, the avenging former NYPD officer turned DEA agent, made a lasting impact in the video game industry. He lent his voice to the character in several editions of the series, released in 2001, 2003, 2008, and 2012.
He leaves behind his wife, Rochelle Boström, and their daughter, Tiernan.