Michael K Williams is an American actor best known for his remarkable role as Oscar on The Wire, which ran for five seasons on HBO. His portrayal of a gay, shotgun-toting “hood Robin Hood”, who stole from dealers to give to the poor brought him international attention and he was even Barack Obama’s favourite character. But, the role also drove him to begin experimenting with drugs, and eventually got him evicted from his Brooklyn housing project. Today, Williams has his life back on track, and he is featured in the new HBO series Lovecraft Country.
Williams is an actor, philanthropist, and an icon. The celebrity has gone through a lot in his life, but today, he is one of the most celebrated entertainers on the face of the planet. His biography will show you why.
Table of Contents
- Biography
- Background and Early Life
- Michael K Williams' Dancing Career
- Acting Career
- Michael K Williams TV Shows
- Michael K Williams Movies
- Awards
- Michael K Williams Net Worth
- Michael Kenneth Williams Scar
- Relationship
- Ethnicity
Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth name: | Michael Kenneth Williams |
| Date of birth: | November 22, 1966 |
| Birthplace: | Flatbush, Brooklyn, New York City, New York, USA |
| Height: | 5' 10" (1.78 m) |
| Weight: | 76 kg |
| Zodiac sign: | Scorpio |
| Eye colour: | Dark Brown |
| Occupation: | Actor, Voiceover Artist, Producer |
| Father: | Booker T. Williams |
| Paternal grandfather: | Primus/Primas Williams |
| Paternal grandmother: | Anna J. Murrell/Murell |
| Ethnicity: | Black |
| Years active: | 1996 to present |
| Trademark: | Michael K Williams scar |
Background and Early Life
Williams was born in Brooklyn, New York as the youngest of 10 children. His father, Booker T. Williams, was an African-American from South Carolina, while his mother was from Nassau.
Michael attended George Westinghouse Career and Technical Education High School and later enrolled in the National Black Theatre in New York City. The actor faced significant challenges during his adolescence, including being molested, which scarred him emotionally and resulted in a troubled teenage life. He struggled with low self-esteem and often sought help and consolation from the church.
Michael K Williams' Dancing Career
Williams began his career as a performer by dancing professionally at age 22. After numerous appearances in music videos and as a background dancer on concert tours for Madonna and George Michael, he decided to pursue acting seriously, having been encouraged by rapper Tupac Shakur.
As a dancer, Michael appeared in more than 50 music videos, showcasing his talent and versatility in the entertainment industry.
Acting Career
Michael participated in several productions of the La MaMA Experimental Theatre, the prestigious National Black Theatre Company, and the Theater for a New Generation directed by Mel Williams. He is best known for his remarkable work as Omar on The Wire, which earned him high praise and made Omar one of television's most memorable characters.
Today, he features as Montrose Freeman in the new HBO drama Lovecraft Country. To date, the actor has over 100 acting credits to his name, showcasing his commitment and passion for the craft.
Michael K Williams TV Shows
The actor has appeared in numerous TV shows, including:
- Vital Signs (filming) - Negativity
- Lovecraft Country (2020) - Montrose Freeman
- F Is for Family (2017-2020) - Smoky / Smokey / Smoky Greenwood
- When They See Us (2019) - Bobby McCray
- Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (2019) - Richard Sackler
Michael K Williams Movies
He has also featured in various movies, including:
- Body Brokers (post-production) - Wood
- Critical Thinking (2020) - Mr. Roundtree
- Arkansas (2020) - Almond
- Motherless Brooklyn (2019) - Trumpet Man
- The Red Sea Diving Resort (2019) - Kabede Bimro
Awards
The actor has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including:
- AAFCA TV Honors (2019) - Best Ensemble for When They See Us
- Black Film Critics Circle Awards (2013) - Best Ensemble for 12 Years a Slave
- Screen Actors Guild Awards (2012) - Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series for Boardwalk Empire
Michael K Williams Net Worth
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Michael has a net worth of $5 Million, reflecting his successful career in film and television.
Michael Kenneth Williams Scar
One of the celebrity’s trademarks is his signature scar. His large facial scar is the result of a bar fight he got involved in on his 25th birthday. He was cut on the face and neck with a razor, which nearly cost him his life.
According to Williams, the scar helped to launch his acting career, leading to more calls for music videos and minor acting roles.
Relationship
In 2019, actress Tasha Smith shared a photo of herself and Williams, calling him “the love of my life.” She expressed her happiness about their relationship through social media, showcasing their bond.
Ethnicity
The actor is of African-American descent on his father’s side and has African-Bahamian roots on his mother’s side, adding to his rich cultural background.
Michael K. Williams is one of the greatest actors of his generation. His talent and charisma continue to endear him to many fans and colleagues alike.
