Emmy-nominated actor Michael K. Williams, best known for his role on the Baltimore-based HBO series "The Wire," has died.
Williams was found dead Monday afternoon by family members in his Brooklyn penthouse apartment, New York City police said.
He was 54.
Investigators are looking at whether Williams died by overdose, police said.
"It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Emmy nominated actor Michael Kenneth Williams. They ask for your privacy while grieving this unsurmountable loss," a representative for Williams' family said.
Williams, who was born in Brooklyn in November 1966.
He got his start in entertainment around age 22 as a professional dancer, and he appeared in more than 50 music videos, including Missy Elliot, Ginuwine, Crystal Waters and Technotronic.
Williams made his feature film debut in the 1996 movie "Bullet," in which he played High Top. It was the late Tupac Shakur who discovered his talent and cast him, according to Williams' website
He was most known for his role as Omar Little on "The Wire," which ran for five seasons.
President Barack Obama said in 2012 that Williams' portrayal of Omar was his favorite character on "The Wire," adding, "That guy is unbelievable," in reference to Williams' character.
Williams is nominated for an Emmy for his performance as Montrose Freeman in HBO's "Lovecraft County."
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