Michael K. Williams, known for starring in the TV series The Wire, has been found dead in his New York apartment.
Michael K. Williams pictured in March 2021 in Miami, Florida. Photo: AFP / Getty Images
US media quote law enforcement sources as saying he died from a suspected drug overdose. This has not been officially confirmed.
Williams was 54.
The actor had openly discussed his struggles with drugs over the years.
In The Wire he played Omar Little, a streetwise gay robber of drug gangs.
He also found fame for playing Albert "Chalky" White in the Boardwalk Empire TV series.
Williams was nominated for three Emmy Awards, including a nomination for his performance in HBO's Lovecraft Country.
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.
— Travon Free (@Travon) September 6, 2021
Somebody tell God, Omar coming.#RIPMichaelKWilliams pic.twitter.com/Ch4iEoCVvS
A New York Police Department spokesman told Reuters Williams was found dead in his Brooklyn apartment after a 2pm phone call to emergency operators.
The NYPD said there was an "ongoing investigation" into Williams's death and that the New York City medical examiner will determine the cause of death at a later time.
Fellow actors in The Wire paid tribute to Williams.
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.
— Isiah Whitlock Jr. (@IsiahWhitlockJr) September 6, 2021
May you RIP. God bless.
I can’t…I’m crushed. no words. I love you bro. RIP to the legend Michael K Williams aka one of the dopest Actors/Brother in the world. #Omar #TheWIRE FOR LIFE. I’m off the grid for a while hard to process this one. I love you bro smh damn ♂️ pic.twitter.com/UNK3F94opM
— Tray Chaney (@traychaney) September 6, 2021
- Reuters / BBC
