Happy Heavenly Birthday! Michael K. Williams’ Five Most Memorable Roles
On what would've been his 57th birthday, we remember Michael K. Williams: a versatile actor whose impactful performances resonated on screen, showcasing the depth of humanity in every character.
He began as a street dancer touring with Madonna and George Michael before making his on-screen debut in 1996's "Bullet," starring alongside Tupac Shakur and He. Though his time was brief, Williams left an indelible mark with numerous iconic roles that continue to inspire:
Bullet
Back in 1996, Williams played the brother of Tupac’s character in the film "Bullet." Williams told The New York Times that the late rapper wanted him to play that role after seeing a Polaroid photo of his headshot.
The Wire
Williams is perhaps most known for his role as Omar Little on "The Wire," which ran for five seasons. In this career-defining role, he portrayed an openly gay, shotgun-wielding outlaw who made his living robbing drug dealers.
Boardwalk Empire
Williams followed the success of "The Wire" with his character Chalky White in the HBO series "Boardwalk Empire." In the Prohibition-era mob drama, Chalky was the roughneck boss of a Black organized crime syndicate in Atlantic City.
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Night Of
In 2017, Williams took on the role of Freddy Knight in HBO’s "Night Of." He earned an Emmy nomination for outstanding supporting actor in a limited series for his portrayal of the Rikers Island inmate.
See him discussing the role above.Lovecraft Country
In 2020, Williams appeared in "Lovecraft County" as Montrose Freeman, a victim of the 1921 Tulsa Massacre who struggles with childhood identity issues. Williams told PEOPLE that he channeled his own trauma to bring that role to life.
Rest in power, Michael K. Williams.
