“Yellowstone” star Hassie Harrison joined the legion of fans and celebrities who mourned the death of Michael K. Williams.
Williams passed away at age 54 on Monday afternoon. Although no cause of death has been confirmed, People reported that drug paraphernalia was found in his Brooklyn apartment. A law enforcement source even told the outlet that they suspected Wiliams consumed heroin laced with fentanyl.
Growing up in the Vanderveer Projects of the East Flatbush neighborhood in Brooklyn, Williams reportedly developed a drug addiction early on in his life. Despite multiple relapses, he continued to fight the addiction throughout his acting career.
After his passing, several people took to social media to express their sorrow and devastation. Harrison, who plays Laramie on”Yellowstone”, took to her Instagram Stories earlier to honor the great actor. She posted a black and white headshot of Williams and included a heartfelt message.
“We lost one of my all-time favorite actors. I’m gutted. Rest in peace, Michael. I’ll forever be in awe of your talent,” the “Yellowstone” star wrote.
Fellow “Yellowstone” costar Gil Birmingham also retweeted a message about Williams’ passing. Director Ava DuVernay wrote the emotional, gut-wrenching tribute to the legendary actor she worked with several times. You can read it here on Instagram.
Celebrities Join ‘Yellowstone’ Star Hassie Harrison in Mourning Michael K. Williams
The tributes to the deceased star poured in yesterday and today, from “Yellowstone” star Hassie Harrison and others. Some came from big networks like HBO, which Williams worked with recently. He starred in “Lovecraft Country,” “Boardwalk Empire,” “12 Years a Slave,” and critically acclaimed show “The Wire.”
“We are devastated to learn of the passing of Michael Kenneth Williams, an HBO family member for more than 20 years,” the network tweeted earlier. “While the world knew of his immense talents, we knew Michael as a dear friend. We send our deepest condolences to his family for this immeasurable loss.”
Others who worked with him or met him, like director James Gunn, also shared their grief.
“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,” Gunn wrote on Twitter. “This is heartbreaking. My thoughts are with all those who loved him.”
Actor Dwayne Johnson posted the same black-and-white headshot of Williams on Instagram that “Yellowstone” star Harrison did. He also included a heartfelt message. “You’ll be missed, brother. A real pleasure to work with you and call you a friend. Strength, mana & love to your family during this very difficult and heartbreaking time. Go rest high.”
Williams’ “The Wire” co-star Wendell Pierce took the time to detail a long thread about the two’s relationship earlier. Check out the emotional thread in the Tweet below.
