Michael Lewis, the accomplished photographer whose portrait of actor Anthony Mackie became a widely recognized internet reaction meme, has died. Lewis reportedly passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 19, 2026, according to a death announcement referenced in recent reports.

News of Lewis’ passing has prompted tributes from people who knew his work, including former students and members of the photography community. While many internet users recognize his name because of the Anthony Mackie photograph, his professional career extended well beyond the viral image.

Lewis built a respected career as a commercial and editorial photographer, producing portraits and other photographic work involving prominent figures in entertainment and culture. His work appeared in publications including The New York Times, Rolling Stone and ESPN. Over the course of his career, he photographed or worked with figures including Ben Stiller, Tina Fey, Paul Rudd, Melissa McCarthy, Questlove, Michael Bay and the Coen Brothers.

Michael Lewis’ Photography Career and Teaching Legacy

Beyond his work in professional photography, Lewis was also committed to education and visual storytelling. In 2019, he joined Ithaca College as an assistant professor specializing in photography and visual storytelling.

Through teaching, Lewis shared his professional knowledge and experience with students who were developing their own careers in photography. Former students have remembered his guidance, creative perspective and willingness to support aspiring photographers.

His career therefore represented more than commercial assignments. It also included mentorship and an effort to help a new generation of photographers develop their own artistic voices.

The Anthony Mackie Photograph That Became a Viral Meme

For millions of internet users, Lewis’ most recognizable work was a portrait of Anthony Mackie that eventually became a popular reaction meme.

The expression in the photograph has been repeatedly shared across social media to convey reactions ranging from amusement and skepticism to quiet judgment. As news of Lewis’ death spread, the photograph was shared again, prompting many people to discover the photographer responsible for the image.

Lewis also developed a distinctive personal approach to photography by sometimes placing himself within photographs alongside the celebrities he photographed. That creative practice became another notable element of his professional identity.

Michael Lewis’ Legacy

Although the Anthony Mackie photograph may be the image most familiar to the public, Lewis’ career encompassed decades of photography, commercial and editorial work, education and mentorship.

His death has renewed attention to the broader body of work he created throughout his career. For those who knew him professionally and personally, his legacy extends beyond a single viral photograph to include the images he produced, the students he taught and the influence he had on fellow creatives.

At this time, additional details concerning Lewis’ family, funeral arrangements or memorial services have not been established in the information provided. Further official information may provide additional details about his life and legacy.