Michael K. Williams, Star of ‘Lovecraft Country’ and ‘The Wire,’ Dead at 54

Acclaimed actor Michael K. Williams, star of HBO dramas The Wire and Lovecraft Country, has died at the age of 54. The news was confirmed in a statement from a representative of his family.

“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.”

According to TVLine, the actor was found in his Brooklyn apartment. NYPost reports there was drug paraphernalia at the scene.

In the past, Williams talked openly about his lifelong struggle with addiction. The fact that his most famous role was as Omar Little on The Wire didn’t help, something he talked about in an interview with nj.com.

“People didn’t even call me Mike, they called me Omar,” he said. “That mixed with my identity crisis and my addiction — and it was not a good mix. I had to stop trying to be Omar and just be Mike.”

Williams was recently nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his work as Montrose Freeman in Lovecraft Country.

A five time Emmy nominee, Williams was also known for roles in Boardwalk Empire and Community.

Community star Joel McHale reacted to the news on social media writing, “Mr. Williams was such a good, kind, wonderful man. He was so funny on Community and, of course, an actor for the ages.”

“I have never met a more loving, caring, beautiful human being. A true friend and thespian,” tweeted co-star Giancarlo Esposito. “I will forever miss you my dear brother. Godspeed.”

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