‘Wire’ actor Michael K. Williams found dead in New York apartment, police say
Actor Michael K. Williams was found dead inside his New York apartment on Monday, police say.
Williams, 54, was discovered by a family member at approximately 2 p.m., an NYPD spokesperson confirmed to McClatchy News.
Williams was perhaps best known for playing Omar Little in HBO’s “The Wire.” He also played Chalky White in “Boardwalk Empire,” another popular HBO series.
The Flatbush native also starred in HBO’s “The Night Of” and 2020’s “Lovecraft Country,” for which he received an Emmy nod for outstanding supporting actor, Variety reported. His film appearances included “Inherent Vice,” “12 Years a Slave,” “Gone Baby Gone” and “The Road.”
Williams’ last major performance was at the 2021 BET Awards, where he gave a powerful tribute to rapper DMX, who died in April.
Authorities said drug paraphernalia was found inside the actor’s apartment.
In 2016, Williams told NPR’s “Fresh Air” that he struggled with addiction while portraying Omar Little, in part blaming the “dark energy” of the all-consuming role.
“One of the main things that’s changed from when I was first on The Wire and to now — in, particularly, The Night Of — is I know how to differentiate myself from the character. … I still go in just as deep, but now I have the tools … to pull myself out of that,” Williams said.
“I thought, ‘Why me? Why did I get spared?’ I should’ve been dead,” he told NJ.com. “I have the scars. I’ve stuck my head in the lion’s mouth. Obviously, God saved me for a purpose. So, I decided to get clean and then come clean. I’m hoping I can reach that one person.”
News of Williams’ death was confirmed by his longtime rep Marianna Shafran.
“It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Emmy-nominated actor Michael Kenneth Williams,” Shafran told The Hollywood Reporter in a statement. “They ask for your privacy while grieving this insurmountable loss.”
The news prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow actors.
This story was originally published September 6, 2021 at 1:46 PM with the headline "‘Wire’ actor Michael K. Williams found dead in New York apartment, police say."