Actor on “Law & Order,” “Broadcast News” and many others was 88

Ed Wheeler, a veteran actor who appeared in Law & Order, Blue Bloods, Broadcast News, Mickey Blue Eyes and many other films, television shows, stage productions and commercials has died. He was 88.

His wife, Messeret Stroman Wheeler, told Deadline that he died Aug. 21 in Englewood, N.J., hospital of respiratory failure due to pneumonia complications.

Born in Brooklyn on February 18, 1936, Wheeler began his show business career with television commercials, including national commercials for companies such as Luvs Diapers, Reynolds Wrap, Sudafed, Pepcid AC, Computer Associates and many others.

He was trained by Gene Frankel and Vin Diesel's stepfather Irving Vincent and received his first film appearances in television series such as: Be careful what you say, 3-2-1 contact And The core of Apple. Wheeler's first film role was opposite William Hurt, Albert Brooks and Holly Hunter in James L. Brooks' Broadcast News (1987).

He then appeared in films such as Probably innocent, thinner, daylight, that 1998 Godzilla, Mickey Blue Eyes, Head of State, The Good Guy And The good heart.

Wheeler guest starred in half a dozen episodes of the groundbreaking NBC drama law and order from 1992-2004 and also directed episodes of popular series, including Ed, Soul Food, Third Watch, New York Undercover, Hope & Faith And A life to live. He also worked with Bill Cosby Cosby and continued as a voice actor Little Bill. His most recent appearance was a 2010 episode Blue blood.

A graduate of the Negro Ensemble Company, Wheeler has performed on stage, among other things Melody in Search of a Base Note, The Dance on Widow's Row, The Waiting Room, Zooman and the Sign, The Little Tommy Parker's acclaimed Colored Minstrel Show and Cuttin' Up.

In 2017, Wheeler was honored with the Living Legend Award at the National Black Theater Festival in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, recognizing his contributions to American theater and the entertainment industry in general.

Wheeler and his wife founded a production company and supported a number of artistic organizations. In 2023, they debuted as co-executive producers with the short film Keeper of the Flame.

“His life was a testament to perseverance, creativity and the power of generosity and kindness,” said Stroman Wheeler, a guest actor The Sopranos, Law & Order and other series as well as video game voice-overs. “Ed will be greatly missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.”

In addition to his wife, Wheeler is survived by nieces, nephews and other family.

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