Michael K. Williams’ “Lovecraft Country” co-star Jonathan Majors recalled the late actor as “a guardian angel” in a tribute tribute released Wednesday.
In an essay for Variety, Majors, 32, recounted how he and Williams met in New York City before filming the HBO science fiction drama and vowed to “be our brother’s guardian.”
“On reflection, it is clear to me that this covenant was not so new to my older brother, Michael …,” Majors wrote, “He was an angel – a guardian angel – a man who put others ahead of himself at every step “.
“He was his brother’s guardian until his last day.”
The two first met in 2016 in San Francisco to film the ABC miniseries “When We Rise,” which is when Williams began caring for his co-star.
“I can remember that he picked up the bill, that he bought me underwear in San Francisco, because somehow I had run out of clean clothes, or that he taught me the nuances of the colony and the purchase of candles,” wrote Majors.
When they met for “Lovecraft Country,” the actors officially pledged to “take care of each other, on screen and off,” knowing the emotional challenges their roles would entail, Majors said.
Both are nominated for Emmy Awards this year for their performances in the series, Majors for Best Actor in a Drama and Williams for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama.
Relatives have said Williams, 54, who was found dead in his Brooklyn apartment Monday by an alleged drug overdose, had been excited about his fifth Emmy nomination for his work as Montrose Freeman in the series.
The beloved actor had spoken publicly about his past confrontation with drug addiction and opened up a few months ago about how he had sought mental health treatment after filming “Lovecraft Country.”
Recalling Williams as “a Brooklyn boy” known for “his laughter, ferocity, kindness, kindness and art,” Majors wrote that he was heartbroken by the loss of his friend.
“My heart is torn to pieces, for having lost this warrior, this fierce angel, this unique artist, my friend, the protector of promise and my brother,” he said.
The last two spoke a few days before Williams’ death, saying, “I love you, brother,” “I love you, brother, really,” after an interview, Majors said.
“Words fail, but I feel close, watching us all,” the actor continued. “Everyone who played will understand that it’s not far away.”
“Although he has disappeared, he is closer than we think. Resting at last, bringing his joy and strength to another space, and fervently continuing the promise, “I am my brother’s guardian,” smiling that grin of teeth, his bright eyes, and his raspy voice whispering, “T ‘I love it,’ only now wearing its new coined wings. ‘