Another icon gone too soon. On Monday, it was announced that actor Michael K. Williams had died at the age of 54.
He was most notable for his roles in HBO's The Wire and Assassin's Creed, and he was recently nominated for an Emmy for Lovecraft Country.
News of his death has hit Hollywood hard, and many have been posting tributes to Michael on social media.
Director Spike Lee shared a picture of him and Michael during a basketball game, writing: "Our Brother Passed Away Today In His Home,Da People’s Republic Of Brooklyn. I’m Shook. Drinking A Bottle Of Italian Red Wine-Brunello Di Montalcino By Myself. Our Greats Are Leaving Us Left And Right. GOD BLESS."
The Rock paid tribute to his "friend" and "brother" as well, writing, "You’ll be missed, brother. A real pleasure to work with you and call you a friend."
Joel McHale, who worked with Michael on the show Community, called him "an actor for the ages."
Damn. Just damn. Mr. Williams was such a Good, kind, wonderful man. He was so funny on Community and, of course, an actor for the ages. @BKBMG
Riz Ahmed thanked his former costar for the art he left the world.
Thread 1/ Rest in Peace MKW…rare talent, unique soul. So generous, humble, badass, and so unapologetically yourself. Thank you for the art you gave us & all you taught me.
The Wire creator David Simon wrote about his great talent.
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.
Michael's The Wire costar Wendell Pierce honored his friend and colleague with some kind words.
Aisha Tyler also talked about his incredible talent.
Michael K Williams was a beautiful, passionate, expansive soul. I felt so lucky to have known him, and we were all so fortunate to have enjoyed his incredible talent. He burned so very bright. Rest in power, MKW. You will forever be The King.
Jeffrey Dean Morgan said the loss broke his heart.
Goddamn it. We lost one of our best, most talented. RIP #MichaelKWilliams. Breaks my heart.
Yvette Nicole Brown also shared her thoughts on the loss of her friend, who she called a true "original."
Director James Gunn called him one of the "kindest, sweetest" souls he's ever known.
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. ❤️
Idris Elba also posted a simple black square with the caption "MKW."
Comedian Roy Wood Jr. remarked on how many Black entertainers die far too young.
All I want for black entertainers is for them to be able to grow old.
Kerry Washington also posted about how "heartbroken" she was to learn about the passing of her friend.
Leslie Jones got real about how much this death "fucked her up."
Mariah Carey posted an old photo of the two in happier times.
Finally, John Cusack put it best: "This one hits hard."
Indeed - this one hits hard https://t.co/lPO9raSWKy