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Williams' costars from The Wire, Hollywood fans and friends pay tribute after his death.
Michael K. Williams, best known for his roles as Omar Little in "The Wire" and Chalky White in "Boardwalk Empire," was found dead in his Brooklyn apartment on Monday, September 6. He was 54.
According to TMZ, a relative went to check on him after they hadn't heard from him in a couple days. He was found in his living room, with drug paraphernalia nearby.
"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 insurmountable loss," his rep told The Hollywood Reporter.
"We are devastated to learn of the passing of Michael Kenneth Williams, a member of the HBO family for more than 20 years," HBO added in a statement to The Wrap. "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."
Williams won acclaim for his work on "The Wire" and received two NAACP Image Award nominations for the series. NAACP also nominated him for "Boardwalk Empire," for which he and the cast also won a Screen Actors Guild for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble In a Drama series. Williams also received Emmy nominations for his work in "Bessie," "The Night Of" and "When They See Us." He was also nominated for his work in "Lovecraft Country," for which he'll now be competing posthumously for later this month.
On the film side, Williams also appeared in "12 Years a Slave," "Gone Baby Gone," "The Road," "Assassin's Creed" and the 2016 "Ghostbusters" remake.
His "Wire" co-star Isiah Whitlock Jr. shared his shock and sadness over the loss tweeting, "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," he added.
Fellow costar Wendell Pierce also shared a lengthy tribute thread to Williams"
As news spread of his death, others in Hollywood began sharing their sorrow across social media, mourning the HBO star and sharing their heartbreak. See all the tributes below.
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