Oct
Ed Wheeler, Veteran Actor from Law & Order and Blue Bloods, Passes Away at 88
Ed Wheeler, a seasoned character actor known for his roles in Law & Order and Presumed Innocent, has passed away at the age of 88.
Wheeler died on August 21 due to respiratory failure stemming from pneumonia complications, as confirmed by Entertainment Weekly. His wife, actress and producer Messeret Stroman Wheeler, honored his memory on social media, describing him as a source of “light, laughter, and love.”
“My dear Ed, you were more than just a public figure; you were a guiding light, a supportive partner, and my heart,” she wrote. “We built a life and created art together, and your legacy will continue to inspire. I will forever miss your voice, your wisdom, and your generosity.”
Stroman Wheeler also expressed her gratitude, saying, “To all who knew Ed, thank you for your love and support during this time. Let’s remember him for the joy he brought into our lives and the profound impact he had on the world. Rest in peace, my dear. You will always be in my heart.”
Wheeler began his career in the early 1970s, with a body of work that encompassed theater and film. He made his screen debut in PBS’ 1978 dramedy series Watch Your Mouth and went on to feature in various shows, including The Core of the Apple, Monsters, New York Undercover, Cosby, and Law & Order.
On the big screen, Wheeler played George Weln in James L. Brooks’ 1987 film Broadcast News, Detective Jim in the 1990 legal thriller Presumed Innocent, and a reporter in the 1999 comedy Mickey Blue Eyes. His other film credits include The Kill Reflex, Heaven Is a Playground, Thinner, and Daylight. He last appeared on screen in 2010 in episodes of One Life to Live and Blue Bloods.
Ed Wheeler – Veteran Actor from Law & Order and Blue Bloods Passes Away at 88
Most recently, Wheeler served as executive producer for the historical short Keepers of the Flame, which focuses on activist Mary Church Terrell during the 1913 inaugural women’s suffrage parade, collaborating on the project with his wife.
In 2017, Wheeler received the Living Legend Award from the National Black Theatre Festival in recognition of his contributions to the theater and entertainment industry.
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