'Lovecraft Country' Actor Michael K. Williams Found Dead

Hollywood star Michael K. Williams, known for his work in the series Lovecraft Country and Boardwalk Empire was found dead in his New York City apartment on Monday.

The tragedy has left his family, fans, and co-stars in shock and his representative released a statement, asking for privacy for his family "while grieving this unsurmountable loss."

Williams, who was 54, was found dead of a suspected heroin overdose in his Brooklyn penthouse and his demise is being investigated by the New York Police Department.

Michael K. Williams

The actor was open about his struggle with addiction and in the wake of his passing, his colleagues have shared words of tributes to him.

Edward Norton, Williams' co-star in Motherless Brooklyn, said: "I feel punched in gut... soul anguished. Getting to work with him was one of the greatest privileges I’ve had in my career.

"My admiration for his talent was boundless, like so many. If he was in a scene he was the best thing about it. Period.”

Filmmaker Ava DuVernay who directed Williams in When They See Us, shared: "I remember the times you’d come on set even when you weren’t on the call sheet. Just to share a hug. To cheer us on. Strolling in like the King that you were. For just a flash to give some love—then gone.

"I remember nights out in NYC that summer and how you were so loved by the folks in your city. I remember our work on the work, always connected and communicating and excavating and building because you were so open and ready to give your all. I remember you sending me a picture of yourself as a young man and sharing with me that the boys whose story we were telling were a reflection of you—and we were going to get it right.”

Michael Kenneth Williams was born on November 22, 1966. He gained recognition for portraying the character of Omar Little in The Wire. 

He also had supporting roles in several film and TV projects, including The Road, Inherent Vice, The Night Of, 12 Years A Slave, and Hap and Leonard.

In the course of his career, Williams received five Primetime Emmy Award nominations.