William Katt, American actor, director, and screenwriter
William Theodore Katt, born on February 16, 1951, is a distinguished American actor and musician whose career spans several decades, marked by a versatile range of roles in film and television. Hailing from a prominent Hollywood family, Katt is the son of two celebrated actors: Emmy Award-winning actress Barbara Hale, famously known as Della Street from the iconic Perry Mason series, and actor Bill Williams (born Herman August Wilhelm Katt), who had a prolific career in film and television. This rich acting lineage provided a foundation for his own successful journey in the entertainment industry.
Early Career and Breakthrough Roles
Katt first garnered significant attention for his compelling performance as Tommy Ross, the kind yet ill-fated prom date of Carrie White, in Brian De Palma’s chilling 1976 adaptation of Stephen King’s debut novel, Carrie. This seminal horror film not only became a critical and commercial success but also established Katt as a rising talent capable of portraying nuanced characters in intense dramatic settings.
Following his impactful debut in Carrie, Katt continued to build a diverse filmography throughout the late 1970s. He starred in the romantic drama First Love (1977), showcasing his appeal as a leading man. He then took on a pivotal role in John Milius's acclaimed 1978 cult classic, Big Wednesday, a poignant coming-of-age story centered around the lives of three surf buddies, a film that remains highly regarded in surfing culture for its authentic portrayal of friendship and the pursuit of the perfect wave. His early film career also included starring as the young Sundance in Butch and Sundance: The Early Days (1979), a prequel exploring the formative years of the legendary Wild West outlaws.
The Iconic Red Suit: The Greatest American Hero
However, it was his starring role as Ralph Hinkley (later changed to Ralph Hanley for legal reasons) in the beloved 1980s television series The Greatest American Hero that solidified William Katt's place in pop culture. Airing from 1981 to 1983, the series captivated audiences with its unique blend of superhero fantasy and lighthearted comedy. Katt portrayed an ordinary high school teacher who mysteriously receives a super-powered suit from extraterrestrials. Lacking an instruction manual and possessing minimal acrobatic grace, his character charmingly struggled to master his newfound abilities, often leading to hilarious and heartwarming mishaps. The show's enduring popularity was further cemented by its iconic theme song, "Believe It or Not," performed by Joey Scarbury, which became a Top 40 hit and remains instantly recognizable. Katt’s portrayal of the reluctant hero struck a chord with viewers, making the series a memorable part of television history.
A Family Legacy: The Perry Mason Television Films
From 1985 to 1988, William Katt embarked on a unique chapter of his career, starring in nine successful Perry Mason television films. In these made-for-TV movies, he played Paul Drake Jr., the son of the original series' famous private investigator, Paul Drake Sr. (originally portrayed by William Hopper). This role offered a compelling link to the classic legal drama and allowed Katt to extend its beloved legacy for a new generation of viewers.
Perhaps most notably, these films provided a rare opportunity for Katt to co-star alongside his own mother, Barbara Hale, who reprised her iconic and Emmy-winning role as Della Street, Perry Mason's loyal and efficient secretary. This unique intergenerational collaboration within such a revered franchise added a special dimension to the films, delighting fans of both the original series and new audiences alike. Their on-screen chemistry, built on a real-life familial bond, brought an authentic warmth and continuity to the beloved characters.
Beyond the Cape and Courtroom
Beyond his most celebrated roles, William Katt has maintained a consistent presence in entertainment, showcasing his versatility across various genres. He has continued to act in numerous film and television productions, including appearances in independent films, horror movies, and guest roles in popular series. Furthermore, Katt has also explored other facets of the creative process, dabbling in directing and writing, underscoring his comprehensive engagement with the art of storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions About William Katt
- What is William Katt best known for?
- William Katt is most widely recognized for his starring role as Ralph Hinkley (later Hanley), the ordinary teacher turned superhero, in the popular 1980s television series, The Greatest American Hero, celebrated for its unique blend of comedy and fantasy.
- Who are William Katt's famous parents?
- William Katt comes from a prominent acting family. His mother is the Emmy Award-winning actress Barbara Hale, famous for her iconic role as Della Street in Perry Mason. His father was actor Bill Williams, known for various film and television roles.
- Did William Katt act with his mother?
- Yes, William Katt notably co-starred with his mother, Barbara Hale, in nine Perry Mason television films between 1985 and 1988. He played Paul Drake Jr., while she reprised her iconic role as Della Street, creating a unique on-screen family legacy.
- What other notable films did William Katt star in early in his career?
- Beyond The Greatest American Hero, William Katt gained early recognition for his role as Tommy Ross in the classic horror film Carrie (1976). He also starred in the romantic drama First Love (1977), the cult surf film Big Wednesday (1978), and Butch and Sundance: The Early Days (1979).