'The Wire' Actor Michael K. Williams Dead at 54

He was found today in his Brooklyn residence

Photo: David Shankbone

BY Alex HudsonPublished Sep 6, 2021

Michael K. Williams, the actor known for roles on The Wire and Boardwalk Empire, has died. He was 54.

The New York Police Department confirmed that Williams was found this afternoon at 2 p.m. inside of his Brooklyn residence. A cause of death has not been officially made public, but law enforcement confirmed to CNN that drug paraphernalia was discovered near the body.

A family representative told Deadline, "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."

Williams notably played Omar Little in The Wire, appearing in all five seasons of the show. He also played Albert "Chalky" White on Boardwalk Empire and had roles in 12 Years a Slave, Inherent Vice, The Road, Gone Baby Gone and more. Recently, he appeared in Lovecraft Country.

Throughout his career, he received five Emmy nominations.

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