Among Williams' most recent performances was a role in HBO's Lovecraft Country, for which he received a 2021 Emmy nomination. Photo / Getty Images
Among Williams' most recent performances was a role in HBO's Lovecraft Country, for which he received a 2021 Emmy nomination. Photo / Getty Images
Actor Michael K. Williams has been found dead in his New York City apartment at age 54.
A law enforcement spokesperson told the New York Post that The Wire wire star was found in his Brooklyn apartment on Monday.
"No foul play indicated," a police source said. "No forced entry,the apartment was in order."
A rep confirmed the sad news to The Hollywood Reporter.
"It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Emmy nominated actor Michael Kenneth Williams. They ask for your privacy while grieving this unsurmountable loss," his long-time rep shared.
Williams was famous for his role as Omar Little in The Wire. Photo / Getty Images
Williams rose to fame on HBO's The Wire, playing stick-up man Omar Little. He also starred as Chalky White in Boardwalk Empire.
Among Williams' most recent performances was a role in HBO's Lovecraft Country, for which he received a 2021 Emmy nomination.
Williams had been open about his personal struggles with drugs through the years, including during the filming of The Wire, saying that getting so into the role of Little, who robs drug dealers, had a negative impact on his life.
The acclaimed actor told NPR in 2016 that he once stumbled into a church in New Jersey desperately seeking help for his addiction.
"When I came through those doors, I was broken. … This was, I would say, around the … third season of 'The Wire,'" Williams said.
Tributes have already begun pouring in on social media from fans and friends following news of his death.
Michael K. Williams was a god damn genius, a black queer icon who challenged the ideas of black masculinity at a time when it wasn't easy and a truly great dude. A huge loss.
I used to be on staff at one of the many organizations Michael K Williams supported, and he was the one celebrity you could always count to show up. He shared his time, talent, and spirit with those kids, and the impact of that cannot be overstated. https://t.co/pC9noX8FwA
This Michael K Williams news is crushing. Played one of the greatest television characters ever created, but his catalogue was so much bigger than just Omar. An incredibly talented actor. Above all - if you saw him anywhere he would always give his time and words. Rest In Peace.
