NEW YORK, NY – American actor James McCaffrey has passed away at the age of 65 after a long battle with multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer, according to Variety. McCaffrey was best known for his role as the voice of Max Payne in the popular video game series, as well as his recent portrayal of Alex Casey in “Alan Wake 2.” He was first diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer, in late 2022.
McCaffrey’s death has sparked an outpouring of condolences from fans and colleagues in the film and gaming industries. Sam Lake, a colleague who worked with McCaffrey for more than 25 years, spoke of his deep sorrow at the loss of a talented actor and dear friend.
Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that originates in the plasma cells, which are responsible for creating antibodies to fight infections. The cancerous plasma cells disrupt the production of healthy blood cells in the bone marrow, leading to a variety of symptoms and complications, such as bone and kidney damage.
The exact cause of multiple myeloma remains unknown, and while there are known risk factors for the disease, it can also develop in individuals with no identifiable risks. Men are at a higher risk than women, and other risk factors include a history of certain plasma cell disorders, family history of myeloma, obesity, and exposure to certain chemicals.
There is no cure for multiple myeloma, and the disease follows a pattern of relapsing and remitting, with periods of symptomatic disease requiring treatment alternating with stable disease controlled by treatment (remission). Early detection and a collaborative approach between patients and healthcare providers are crucial in managing this challenging blood cancer.
To honor James McCaffrey’s memory and the countless others affected by multiple myeloma, ongoing awareness, research, and support for patients and their families are essential in the fight against this devastating disease.