Nationwide — Michael Wright, best known for starring in “The Five Heartbeats” and “Sugar Hill,” has died at age 70 in Los Angeles. His family said he suffered heart failure along with complications from a rare degenerative neurological disease. His family confirmed his death, as reported by TMZ. He had been dealing with Marchiafava-Bignami disease, a rare condition that affects the brain and can cause serious neurological problems. His family did not provide further details about his illness or the circumstances surrounding his final days.
Born in New York City in 1956, Wright built a career that lasted nearly five decades. He first gained attention with his role in the 1979 film “The Wanderers.” Four years later, he appeared in Robert Altman’s “Streamers,” continuing to establish himself as a versatile actor who could handle both dramatic and supporting roles.
His biggest role came in 1991 when he played Eddie King Jr. in “The Five Heartbeats.” The musical drama followed a fictional Black vocal group and its members as they dealt with fame, personal struggles and changes in the music industry. Wright played the group’s gifted but troubled lead singer, making the character one of the most memorable parts of his career. Three years later, he appeared opposite Wesley Snipes in “Sugar Hill,” playing Raynathan Skuggs.
Wright continued working in film and television throughout the following years. His movie credits included “The Principal,” where he starred alongside Jim Belushi and Louis Gossett Jr., as well as “Money Talks” with Chris Tucker, “Point Blank” with Mickey Rourke, and “The Interpreter” with Nicole Kidman and Sean Penn. He also appeared in television productions, including the HBO prison drama “Oz” and “V: The Series.”
The actor is survived by his wife, Susan Wright, his daughter, and his stepchildren. His career spanned almost 50 years, with roles ranging from dramas and crime films to comedies.