The unexpected death of acclaimed actor Michael K. Williams sent shockwaves throughout the country when he was found unresponsive in his home. His death was especially felt in the city of Compton as his twin sister is a member of the city council.
“Our family has been shaken to the core of the loss of our Mike. Thank you to everyone who contacted us, flooded us with love, and more importantly, prayers. I will miss my brother, my best friend and birthday partner in this realm, but I know he will continue to watch over me and our family in heaven as he did on earth,” said Michelle Chambers.
Williams is known for his portrayal of Omar Little from the hit HBO series The Wire and most recent appearance on Lovecraft Country. Many remember his being about the community and his involvement in social justice reform and recidivism, which is also a passion of his sister.
“He is amazingly talented and such a good brother, and was clearly about the community,” said Rashidi Harper, executive producer of Hip Hop Uncovered.
NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea confirmed on Tuesday that he met with Williams to discuss a partnership, without divulging exactly what it was.
‘I met Michael earlier this year. We had met and tried to collaborate on doing things with the police department with him,’ Shea told Good Day New York.
Aside from acting, Williams enjoyed a full career which included choreographing countless music videos, and his acting career is credited due to a chance encounter with the late rapper Tupac Shakur.
One of Williams’ last public appearances was at the memorial service of rapper Earl “DMX” Simmons.
The city of Compton released a statement on the passing of Chamber’s brother, with her colleagues expressing their condolences during the September 7 regular city council meeting.
“On behalf of the entire city of Compton, we offer our deepest condolences to Councilwoman Michelle Chambers and her entire family, as they grieve the loss of her brother, actor Michael K. Williams.”
Plans have not been made public on services.
Williams is survived by his son, Elijah.
