Michael Kenneth Williams - The Wire’s Omar Little - dies aged 54

Michael Kenneth Williams, best known for his role as Omar Little from the cult series The Wire, passed away on Monday in New York. According to the New York Police department, the actor was found dead by a relative in his apartment. He was 54.

The actor's representative said it was "with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Emmy nominated actor Michael Kenneth Williams."

"They ask for your privacy while grieving this," said the statement from Marianna Shafran of Shafran PR.

The multiple Emmy nominated actor was also noted for his roles in Hap and Leonard, Boardwalk Empire, Lovecraft Country, Bessie, The Night Of and When They See Us, among many others.

"While the world is aware of his immense talents as an artist, we knew Michael as a dear friend who was beloved by all who had the privilege to work with him," HBO said in a statement.

David Simon, the former Baltimore crime reporter who wrote The Wire, wrote on Twitter that he was "too gutted right now to say all that ought to be said. Michael was a fine man and a rare talent and on our journey together he always deserved the best words. And today those words won't come." Lance Reddick, who played police chief Cedric Daniels on the show, posted an image of him with Michael from the premiere of the first season at The Senator Theatre in Baltimore as a tribute to the departed actor. 

While the cause of death remains unknown at this time, Michael has in the past been vocal about his struggles with substance abuse, telling US media that much of his earnings from The Wire were sent on narcotics.