Michael K. Williams, who died Monday at 54, rose from Madonna background dancer to in-demand actor who was nominated for five Emmy Awards. To see a gallery featuring some of his most famous scene-stealing roles, click on the photo above — a shot of Williams’ signature Omar Little character from HBO’s The Wire.
Immediately identifiable by the scar that ran from the middle of his forehead to the right side of his mouth, Williams specialized in playing hardened men few were interested in messing with.
Several of his most popular projects were done for HBO: Along with playing the terrifying Omar in the 2000s series The Wire — how many of you have never heard “The Farmer in the Dell” quite the same since? — gangster Chalky White in period drama Boardwalk Empire, influential inmate Freddy Knight in limited The Night Of, Jack Gee in Bessie and Montrose Freeman in last year’s Lovecraft Country.
Immediately identifiable by the scar that ran from the middle of his forehead to the right side of his mouth, Williams specialized in playing hardened men few were interested in messing with.
Several of his most popular projects were done for HBO: Along with playing the terrifying Omar in the 2000s series The Wire — how many of you have never heard “The Farmer in the Dell” quite the same since? — gangster Chalky White in period drama Boardwalk Empire, influential inmate Freddy Knight in limited The Night Of, Jack Gee in Bessie and Montrose Freeman in last year’s Lovecraft Country.
- 9/7/2021
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Michael K. Williams, the enigmatic performer whose work included “The Wire” and a recent Emmy nomination for “Lovecraft Country,” has died at the age of 54. Law enforcement confirmed the news to the media. Representatives for Williams said, “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 unsurmountable loss.”
The actor was discovered in the living room of his Williamsburg apartment by his nephew. It was said that Williams possibly died of a drug overdose, with police saying no foul play is suspected. Williams had been vocal over the years about his struggles with substance abuse. The actor, a five-time Emmy nominee, recently received a nomination for his role as Montrose Freeman in the HBO drama “Lovecraft Country.”
Williams was a Brooklyn native raised in East Flatbush. He was discovered by rapper Tupac Shakur...
The actor was discovered in the living room of his Williamsburg apartment by his nephew. It was said that Williams possibly died of a drug overdose, with police saying no foul play is suspected. Williams had been vocal over the years about his struggles with substance abuse. The actor, a five-time Emmy nominee, recently received a nomination for his role as Montrose Freeman in the HBO drama “Lovecraft Country.”
Williams was a Brooklyn native raised in East Flatbush. He was discovered by rapper Tupac Shakur...
- 9/6/2021
- by Kristen Lopez
- Indiewire
The Night Of actor Michael Kenneth Williams will receive a Made in NY Award at tonight’s IFP Gotham Awards ceremony. The award, presented by the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, recognizes excellence in New York City’s creative community and achievements of individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the City’s entertainment and digital media industries.
“Michael Kenneth Williams is an inspiring New Yorker who continues to give back to his community even as his acting success reaches new heights,” said Media and Entertainment Commissioner Julie Menin. “Not unlike the characters he’s played on screen, Michael has faced down adversity and translated his experiences into his craft. For young people everywhere who have faced similar challenges whether it be abuse or bullying, Michael’s story stands out as a shining example of courage, honesty and perseverance.”
“I’m overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude...
“Michael Kenneth Williams is an inspiring New Yorker who continues to give back to his community even as his acting success reaches new heights,” said Media and Entertainment Commissioner Julie Menin. “Not unlike the characters he’s played on screen, Michael has faced down adversity and translated his experiences into his craft. For young people everywhere who have faced similar challenges whether it be abuse or bullying, Michael’s story stands out as a shining example of courage, honesty and perseverance.”
“I’m overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude...
- 11/27/2017
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
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