Popular actor Michael Wright has died at the age of 70. The celebrated American icon, best known for The Five Heartbeats, Streamers, The Principal and V, passed away on August 19 after reportedly suffering heart failure. Wright had been battling the degenerative neurological disease Marchiafava-Bignami, according to reports. The sad news of his passing was confirmed by his wife, Susan Wright, in an emotional statement. She remembered him as a loving husband and father and celebrated his extraordinary legacy as an artist. Condolences are now pouring in on social media.

Born in April 1956, Michael Wright starred in several films and TV shows. In his much-loved The Five Heartbeats musical film, he was seen as Eddie King Jr. His other notable credits included The Wanderers, Sugar Hill, V and HBO’s Oz.

Sharing the sad news, his wife Susan wrote, “It is with profound sadness and an unimaginable heaviness in my heart that I share the passing of my beloved husband, Michael Wright.”

She added, “Michael was a husband, a father (Manon Wright, Byron Barr, Brittney Briggs, Brianna Barr, Sir Barr, a grandfather (Yoko), loved one, a friend, and an extraordinary artist whose work touched generations. Many knew and loved him through The Five Heartbeats, The Wanderers, V, The Principal, Streamers, and the many other characters he brought to life throughout his remarkable career. His talent, presence, and contributions to film and television will live on, but to those of us who loved him personally, he was so much more than the roles the world knew him for.”

In the Instagram post, Susan said that the family was grieving an enormous and deeply personal loss. While she acknowledged how much Michael meant to so many people and expressed gratitude for the love, prayers, memories and condolences being shared, she respectfully requested the public, media and those who knew and admired her husband to give the family privacy and grace during the difficult time.

Susan also urged people to not share unconfirmed information or speak on behalf of the family.

She added that they would share more information about Michael’s life, legacy and plans to honour and celebrate him when they were ready. Susan concluded, “Michael, your work will live forever, but your love will live even longer in the hearts of those who knew you best. Rest peacefully, my love. You will be missed beyond words.”

Social media is currently overflowing with tributes for the actor.