The Wire and Boardwalk Empire star Michael K Williams has died at the age of 54.

Following reports that the actor had been found dead in his New York City apartment, the NYPD has now confirmed to Variety that the star was found deceased inside of his residence on Monday (September 6).

"It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Emmy nominated actor Michael Kenneth Williams," the star's rep confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter. "They ask for your privacy while grieving this unsurmountable loss."

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michael k williams, september 2019
David Crotty/Patrick McMullan//Getty Images

Alongside his star turn as Omar Little in The Wire, Williams was also known for roles in Boardwalk Empire and in several HBO TV series, including last year's Lovecraft Country, which earned Williams an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.

He was also Emmy-nominated for his role in 2016 hit The Night Of starring Riz Ahmed, 2015's Bessie, as well as Netflix limited series When They See Us.

On the big screen, Williams also featured in films including The Road, 12 Years a Slave and Inherent Vice.

michael k williams as omar in the wire, season 3
HBO
Michael K Williams as Omar in The Wire

Following the confirmation of the actor's death, many of his friends and co-stars have shared their tributes to Williams with The Wire co-star Tray Chaney saying he was "crushed" by the news.

"I can't… I'm crushed. no words. I love you bro," he wrote on Twitter. "RIP to the legend Michael K Williams aka one of the dopest Actors/Brother in the world. #Omar #TheWIRE FOR LIFE. I'm off the grid for a while hard to process this one. I love you bro smh damn."

"Shocked and saddened by the death of Michael K Williams," Isiah Whitlock Jr added. "One of the nicest brothers on the planet with the biggest heart. An amazing actor and soul.May you RIP. God bless."

Supergirl's David Harewood, The Suicide Squad's James Gunn and Aisha Taylor were among those who also shared tributes to the star.

"Michael K Williams, in addition to being one of the most talented actors around, was also one of the kindest, sweetest, most gentle souls I've ever met. This is heartbreaking. My thoughts are with all those who loved him," Gunn wrote.

You can read more tributes below:


Lettermark
Megan Davies is a freelance sub-editor and news writer at Digital Spy, and is a lover of good TV, good coffee and any story with a solid twist.