'Wire' star Michael K. Williams is dead at 54

Williams was found dead in his New York City apartment.

September 6, 2021, 5:59 PM

"The Wire" actor Michael K. Williams was found dead in his Brooklyn apartment Monday, ABC News has confirmed. He was 54.

"It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Emmy-nominated actor Michael Kenneth Williams," his representative said in a statement. "They ask for your privacy while grieving this unsurmountable [sic] loss."

PHOTO: Actor Michael K. Williams poses for a portrait on March 31, 2021, in Miami.
Actor Michael K. Williams poses for a portrait on March 31, 2021, in Miami.
Rodrigo Varela/Getty Images

New York ABC station WABC-TV reported that drug paraphernalia was found at the scene. Police said the investigation is ongoing and the medical examiner will determine the cause of death.

Williams starred as Omar Little in "The Wire" and as Chalky White in "Boardwalk Empire." He was most recently nominated for a 2021 Emmy for his role as Montrose Freeman in HBO's "Lovecraft Country."