The Wire actor found dead in his New York Apartment. According to the PA news agency, the American actor was discovered at his New York residence at around 2 p.m. local time on Monday, best known for his role as Omar Little in HBO’s renowned crime thriller. The cause of death has yet to be determined. Michael also appeared in the gangster series Boardwalk Empire and the television film Bessie, in addition to The Wire. He was a four-time Emmy nominee for Bessie, The Night Of, When They See Us and Lovecraft Country.
Last week, it was announced he had joined the cast of Sony’s untitled biopic of famed world heavyweight champion George Foremen.
He was set to play Doc Broadus, who was Foreman’s trainer and mentor.
His other film roles included The Road, Inherent Vice and 12 Years A Slave. However Michael will be best remembered for Omar, the gay, morally ambiguous criminal who frequently targets drug dealers.
Isiah Whitlock Jr, who starred alongside Williams in The Wire, paid tribute to her co-star on Twitter.
He said: “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.”
Filmmaker James Gunn described him as among the ‘most gentle souls I’ve ever met’.
He tweeted: “Michael K Williams, in addition to being one of the most talented actors around, was also one of the kindest, sweetest, most gentle souls I’ve ever met.
“This is heartbreaking. My thoughts are with all those who loved him.”
