Michael Wright death: The Five Heartbeats star dies aged 70
Michael Wright death: The Five Heartbeats star dies aged 70
Tom MurraySat, August 22, 2026 at 12:25 PM UTC
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Michael Wright, the actor best known for his powerful performance as Eddie King Jr. in the cult classic 1991 musical drama The Five Heartbeats, has died at age 70.
In a statement sent to TMZ, Wright’s family said he died in Los Angeles Wednesday after suffering heart failure coupled with complications of a rare degenerative neurological disease called Marchiafava-Bignami.
The news was announced by his wife, Susan, on Instagram on Friday.
“It is with profound sadness and an unimaginable heaviness in my heart that I share the passing of my beloved husband, Michael Wright,” Susan wrote in a statement shared by TV personality Madina Milana.
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“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,” she continued.
“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,” the statement continued.
“Our family is grieving an enormous and deeply personal loss. We understand how much Michael meant to so many people, and we are grateful for the love, prayers, memories, and condolences already being shared.We respectfully ask the public, members of the media, and those who knew and admired Michael to please allow our family the privacy and grace to grieve during this incredibly difficult time.
“We also ask that people refrain from sharing unconfirmed information or speaking on behalf of our family.In the coming days, when we are ready, we will share additional information regarding Michael’s life, legacy, and how we intend to honor and celebrate him. 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.”
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Source: “AOL Entertainment”
