Cliff Notes – Boardwalk Empire star Devin Harjes dies aged 41 after cancer diagnosis
- Devin Harjes, known for his roles in Boardwalk Empire and Manifest, passed away on May 27 after complications from cancer, diagnosed in winter 2024.
- His family has requested donations to TKC Blessings in his name to support scholarships for children pursuing the arts, reflecting his passion for helping young artists.
- Harjes is remembered as a dedicated actor and kind individual, with tributes highlighting his generosity and commitment to his craft.
Boardwalk Empire star Devin Harjes dies aged 41 after cancer diagnosis
Boardwalk Empire star Devin Harjes has died aged 41, just months after he was diagnosed with cancer.
The actor, who was also known for his role in Manifest and appeared in the likes of Daredevil, Gotham and Orange Is The New Black, was diagnosed with the disease in winter 2024.
His representative has confirmed he died on May 27 after complications from cancer.
Harjes had been receiving treatment at New York City’s Mount Sinai West Hospital.
His spokesperson told NBC News in a statement: ‘He was an artist of great conviction who never gave less than one hundred percent to any role he undertook.
‘As a person, he was generous, kind, understanding and devoted to his family and friends, a great horseback rider and had a magic way with all animals.’
After starting his acting career in Dallas-Forth Worth, Texas, he moved to NYC and starting performing in off-Broadway productions and independent films.
Harjes then made the switch to television, taking on the role of Jack Dempsey in Boardwalk Empire.
He went onto make guest appearances in the likes of Blue Bloods, Orange Is The New Black, Gotham, Daredevil and Elementary.
His online obituary reads: ‘Outside of acting, Devin was a dedicated student of martial arts and a regular at the gym — he often joked it was safer than getting kicked in the face by a horse.’
The tribute continues: ‘Devin is survived by his loving parents, Randy and Rosanne Harjes; his sister Trish Harjes and her husband Justin Kelley; nephews Tristin and Sawyer Kelley; nieces Rory and Charly Kelley; his former wife Shiva Shobitha; his beloved cat, Maude; and countless friends whose lives were brighter…or at least more entertaining…because of him.’
Meanwhile, his family of asked that in lieu of flowers, mourners can donate to TKC Blessings in his name.
They added: ‘All proceeds will support scholarships for children pursuing the arts—Devin’s true passion in life.’
Filmmaker Debra Markowitz paid tribute to Harjes on Instagram, as she wrote: ‘Way too young. RIP Devin.’
And director Antonio DiFonzo said on Facebook: ‘Terribly sad news as we lost Devin Harjes, an amazing actor and friend. He was constantly striving to be better and put his heart and soul into everything he did!
‘We will never forget you and your amazing part in The Boyz of Summer and our lives. Rest in peace, Lion Heart!’