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Actor, "The Wire"

Although Michael K. Williams is best known for his role as Omar, the homosexual thug on the HBO hit series, "The Wire," it wasn't a portrayal that came naturally to the talented thespian.

"It took a lot for me to get into the character," he says of the role. "It has been a journey; I had to really lock into the culture and the subculture. I had to find a whole swagger . it was dark at times; sometimes it was exciting and fun. I'm grateful that I took the time to get into the character, because I got to meet the beautiful city of Baltimore, which I have now grown to love."

Williams has been approached by people from all walks of life who can relate to the show and his character. Fans from the 'hood and the gay community have commended him on his work.

Next up for Williams is Spike TV's new series "The Kill Point," starring Donnie Wahlberg and John Leguizamo. Williams plays Q, a sniper for a S.W.A.T. team.

On the silver screen, Williams has roles in Ben Affleck's directorial debut, Gone Baby Gone. Scheduled for release in October, it stars Morgan Freeman, Ed Harris and Casey Affleck.

"It's a really grimy, murder mystery. I play a detective," he shares of his part in the highly anticipated film. Williams also has a part in the upcoming Spike Lee production, You're Nobody 'til Somebody Kills You. "The Wire" wraps its fifth and final season in 2008. - curtis waller

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