Who Are Michael Wright's 5 Children? Inside The Actor's Private Family Life After His Death At 70
Michael Wright, best known for 'The Five Heartbeats', has died at 70. He shared five children with his wife, Susan Wright, and kept a private family life away from Hollywood.
See more of our coverage in your search results.
Add BollywoodShaadis on GoogleMichael Wright, the veteran actor best known for playing 'Eddie King Jr.' in The Five Heartbeats, has died at the age of 70. The news of his demise was confirmed by his wife, Susan Wright, on August 21, 2026. In her heartfelt note, Susan described Michael as a "husband, father, grandfather, friend and loved one."
Michael was a highly respected American character actor whose works in classics like The Wanderers and Streamers earned him worldwide praise. Despite his Hollywood fame, he kept most of his private life away from the spotlight, especially when it came to his family life with Susan and their kids.
Michael Wright leaves behind 5 children
In her tribute posted on Instagram, Susan Wright named the actor’s five children as Manon Wright, Byron Barr, Brittney Briggs, Brianna Barr and Sir Barr. She also revealed that Wright was a grandfather to a grandchild named Yoko, though it has not been revealed which child is Yoko's parent. Beyond those details, the family has largely stayed out of the spotlight. Susan specifically asked the public not to share unconfirmed information or speak on behalf of the family while they process their loss.
According to Michael Wright's IMDb profile, Susan was not the actor's first wife. Previously, he was married to Mitzi Lau, whom he married in November 1994 and divorced in January 2000. The historical records say the pair had a daughter during the marriage, though further details about her remain strictly private. Later, he married Susan, though the date of their wedding remains under wraps.
Susan Wright revealed that her husband passed away on August 21, 2026. She mentioned that Michael was loved by his fans, but as a dad and friend, mainly to those who shared a deep personal relationship with him, he was more than what the world had seen him to be. She wrote:
"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."
As of now, the family has refrained from sharing further details about what led to the actor's death or regarding Wright's funeral or memorial plans. Susan said they would share information about his life and legacy when they were ready. An excerpt from the statement reads:
"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."
Who was Michael Wright?
Michael Wright was born in New York City on April 30, 1956, and the city became his home in his growing-up years. He studied at the New Lincoln School before beginning his acting career with The Wanderers. In 1983, his work broke out after he performed in Robert Altman's 1983 film Streamers. After widespread acclaim, the film earned him the Volpi Cup for Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival alongside his co-stars.
Wright later took on the role that would become one of his most memorable works: 'Eddie King Jr.', the troubled R&B singer in the 1991 musical drama, The Five Heartbeats. His portrayal of Eddie’s rise to fame and battle with addiction made a lasting impression on audiences, and that legacy has continued to this day.
In his career spanning five decades, Wright appeared in numerous films and earned a prestigious position in American cinema as a character actor. Some of his most notable roles were seen in films like Sugar Hill, The Principal, and The Interpreter. Beyond the silver screen, Michael created an impressive presence in television as well, appearing as 'Elias Taylor' in V, V: The Final Battle, and V: The Series from 1983 to 1985.
In the early 2000s, Michael brilliantly portrayed 'Omar White' on HBO’s acclaimed prison drama Oz. He later appeared on popular TV shows like Black Lightning, Law & Order, New York Undercover, and Miami Vise. His last credited film was Dope King (2025), playing 'Willie', and his last major work was a drama series called Transitions (2019), where he played the character 'Lloyd Blackwell'.
Rest in peace, Michael.
Image courtesy: madina_milana/Instagram, michaelwrightnyc/Instagram
Read Next: Anna Faris Opens Up On Sobriety And Motherhood; Meet Jack, The Son She Shares With Ex, Chris Pratt
