Robert Chew of 'The Wire' Passes Away

Robert F. Chew, possibly known best for appearing in the HBO drama “The Wire,” died on Thursday at his Baltimore home.

Chew was only 52 years old.

According to his sister, Clarice Chew, the reason or Chew’s death was a heart attack. He passed in his sleep.

Chew garnered praise for his role as Proposition Joe Stewart on “The Wire,” where he brokered deals between drug factions based on negotiation, not violence.

“We were looking for somebody that was sensible and even paternal, as almost a foil to the rest of the brutality and ambition that you were seeing in that underground economy,” said show creator Mr. Simon of the casting choice. “So you needed him to be incredibly human, funny, connected to whoever’s in the room, and yet he’s a gangster.”

Simon continued, "Robert was not only an exceptional actor, he was an essential part of the film and theater community in Baltimore. He could have gone to New York or Los Angeles and commanded a lot more work, but he loved the city as his home and chose to remain here working."

Chew was a member of the local Arena Players theater troupe. He mentored children and aspiring actors in the Baltimore area.

His former co-stars took to Twitter to share their loss.

Michael Kenneth Wiliamstweeted the much-shared "R.I.P. to the talented Mr Robert Chew.”

Actor Jamie Hector wrote, "I didn't want to believe this #RIP Robert F Chew. Prop Joe will always be remembered Robert Chew will always be loved and missed!"

Our condolences to friends, family, and fans of Robert Chew.