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Michael K Williams, The Wire star, dies aged 54

Updated / Tuesday, 7 Sep 2021 07:00
Michael K Williams, pictured in Miami, Florida in March 2021
Michael K Williams, pictured in Miami, Florida in March 2021

Michael K Williams, the acclaimed African-American actor best known for his roles as antihero Omar Little in the crime-drama The Wire and as gangster Albert 'Chalky' White in Boardwalk Empire, has died at the age of 54.

Williams' passing was confirmed to entertainment trade publication The Hollywood Reporter by a representative for the late actor.

"It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Emmy nominated actor Michael Kenneth Williams," said the statement.

"They ask for your privacy while grieving this unsurmountable loss."

It is reported that Williams was found dead at his New York home on Monday afternoon after a call had been made to emergency services.

Reuters reports that the New York Police Department said there is an "ongoing investigation" into his death and that the New York City medical examiner will determine the cause of death at a later time.

The native New Yorker was announced as an Emmy nominee earlier this year for his performance in the horror-drama series Lovecraft Country. The awards are due to take place later this month.

He had previously been Emmy-nominated for his work on When They See Us, Vice, The Night Of and Bessie.

The former dancer's screen career began in the 1990s and included roles in The Sopranos, Alias, Law & Order, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation and CSI: NY, among many others.

On film, his credits included Motherless Brooklyn, Assassin's Creed, Ghostbusters (2016), 12 Years a Slave, The Road and Gone Baby Gone.

In a tweet, The Wire creator David Simon wrote: "Too gutted right now to say all that ought to be said. Michael was a fine man and a rare talent and on our journey together he always deserved the best words. And today those words won't come."

In a statement, HBO, the US cable giant behind The Wire and Boardwalk Empire, said: "We are devastated to learn of the passing of Michael Kenneth Williams, a member of the HBO family for more than 20 years.

"While the world is aware of his immense talents as an artist, we knew Michael as a dear friend who was beloved by all who had the privilege to work with him. We send our deepest condolences to his family for this immeasurable loss."

Wendell Pierce, best known for his role as Detective Bunk Moreland in The Wire, tweeted: "If you don't know, you better ask somebody. His name was Michael K. Williams. He shared with me his secret fears then stepped out into his acting with true courage, acting in the face of fear, not in the absence of it.

"It took me years to learn what Michael had in abundance."

Another Wire cast member, Isiah Whitlock Jr, who played Senator Clay Davis, tweeted: "Shocked and saddened by the death of Michael K Williams. One of the nicest brothers on the planet with the biggest heart. An amazing actor and soul. May you RIP. God bless."

Paul Feig, who directed Williams in the 2016 Ghostbusters film, said: "This is devastating. Michael was the greatest guy. We had so much fun together on Ghostbusters. Just a lovely human being.

"My heart goes out to his family and friends. RIP Michael. You were awesome."

Here are some of the many other tributes:

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