Actor Michael K. Williams, remembered lovingly from his role on HBO’s “The Wire” was reportedly found dead in his New York residence on Monday afternoon (September 6). His death was verified by his representative to the Hollywood Reporter. He was 54 years old at the time.
The family announces the passing of actor Michael Kenneth Williams with great sadness.
“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,” said Shafran.
According to the New York Post, drug paraphernalia was discovered in the flat, indicating a possible overdose. According to the New York Post, he was discovered dead in the living room of his Brooklyn apartment by his nephew.
During his portrayal of Omar Little, Williams developed a habit of smoking cannabis and an addiction to cocaine in 2004.
In 2008, then-U.S. Senator Barack Obama cited The Wire as his favorite tv show and called Omar his favorite character. About Omar, Obama said, “That’s not an endorsement. He’s not my favorite person, but he’s a fascinating character… he’s the toughest, baddest guy on the show.”
For his roles as Montrose Freeman in HBO’s Lovecraft Country Williams received an Emmy nomination for outstanding supporting actor in a drama series earlier this year.
Williams, who was born on November 22, 1966, in Brooklyn, grew up in the Vanderveer housing projects in East Flatbush and attended George Westinghouse Career and Technical Education High School.
He finally earned positions as a dancer working with heavyweights such as George Michael and Madonna before furthering his acting with the National Black Theatre in New York City.
Bullet, starring Mickey Rourke and Tupac Shakur, was his first professional acting performance.
Williams is most known for his roles as Omar Little in The Wire and Chalky White in Boardwalk Empire.
Horrible, sad, and unbelievable to think we’ve lost the fantastically talented Michael K. Williams at the age of 54.
— Stephen King (@StephenKing) September 6, 2021
