Actor Michael Wright, known for 'The Five Heartbeats', dies at 70
Michael Wright, an actor celebrated for roles in 'The Five Heartbeats' and 'Sugar Hill', died in Los Angeles at age 70 after heart failure and complications from a rare neurological disease.
Actor Michael Wright died on Wednesday in Los Angeles, his family told TMZ. The cause was heart failure combined with complications from Marchiafava-Bignami, a rare degenerative neurological disorder.
Born in New York City in 1956, Wright began his film career with a breakout role in the 1979 movie "The Wanderers" and appeared in Robert Altman's 1983 film "Streamers." He later played Victor Duncan in the 1987 comedy "The Principal" alongside Jim Belushi and Louis Gossett Jr.
Wright is perhaps best remembered for portraying Eddie King Jr., the lead singer in the 1991 drama "The Five Heartbeats," and for his role as Raynathan Skuggs in the 1994 film "Sugar Hill" opposite Wesley Snipes. His film credits also include "Money Talks," "Point Blank," and "The Interpreter," while his television work featured appearances on series such as "Oz" and "V: The Series."
He is survived by his wife, Susan Wright, his daughter and stepchildren.