Actor Ed Wheeler, known for his roles in a variety of productions including Law & Order and Blue Bloods, passed away at the age of 88.
According to his wife, Messeret Stroman Wheeler, he died on August 21 from respiratory failure due to complications of pneumonia at Englewood Hospital in New Jersey, as reported by Deadline.
‘His life was a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the power of generosity and kindness,” she shared in a statement, adding, ‘Ed will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.’
In a heartfelt Instagram message posted alongside a sweet photo of Ed, Wheeler also wrote, ‘Your talent, dedication and passion were unmatched—whether on stage, in front of the camera or behind the scenes. From national commercials to the esteemed Negro Ensemble Company, your presence was felt and cherished.’
‘My Honey Ed, you were more than just a public figure; you were a guiding light, a supportive partner and my heart.’
Actor Ed Wheeler, known for his roles in a variety of productions including Law & Order and Blue Bloods, passed away at the age of 88
According to his wife, Messeret Stroman Wheeler, he died on August 21 from respiratory failure due to complications of pneumonia at Englewood Hospital in New Jersey , as reported by Deadline
She concluded: ‘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 Honey. You will always be in my heart.’
Born on February 18, 1936, in Brooklyn, Ed began his career in entertainment through television commercials.
He appeared in a wide range of national ads for major brands such as Luvs diapers, Reynolds Wrap, Sudafed, Pepcid AC, and Computer Associates, among others, according to Deadline.
Wheeler made his early television appearances in shows like Watch Your Mouth, 3-2-1 Contact, and The Core of the Apple.
His film debut came in 1987, where he starred alongside William Hurt, Albert Brooks, and Holly Hunter in James L. Brooks’ critically acclaimed film Broadcast News.
Wheeler later appeared in a variety of films, including Presumed Innocent, Daylight, Mickey Blue Eyes, and Head of State.
Wheeler made several guest appearances on Law & Order between 1992 and 2004 and appeared in popular series such as Ed, Soul Food, Third Watch, New York Undercover, and Hope & Faith.
‘His life was a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the power of generosity and kindness,” she shared in a statement, adding, ‘Ed will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to com’
Wheeler made several guest appearances on Law & Order between 1992 and 2004 and appeared in popular series such as Ed, Soul Food, Third Watch, New York Undercover, and Hope & Faith
His film debut came in 1987, where he starred alongside William Hurt (pictured), Albert Brooks, and Holly Hunter in James L. Brooks’ critically acclaimed film Broadcast News.
His final TV appearance came in a 2010 episode of Blue Bloods.
An alum of the Negro Ensemble Company, Wheeler’s stage work included notable plays like Melody in Search of a Base Note, Zooman and the Sign, The Dance on Widow’s Row, and Cuttin’ Up.
In 2017, he was honored with the Living Legend Award from the National Black Theatre Festival.
Ed and Messeret had established their own production company together.
