Bill Bixby, American actor and director (d. 1993)

Wilfred Bailey Everett Bixby III, universally celebrated by his professional stage name Bill Bixby, was a prolific American talent whose career spanned over three decades. Born on January 22, 1934, and passing on November 21, 1993, Bixby left an indelible mark as a versatile actor, a skilled director, a notable producer, and a familiar face as a frequent panelist on various game shows, endearing himself to audiences across a wide spectrum of entertainment.

A Multifaceted Career in Entertainment

Bill Bixby's professional journey commenced in the late 1950s, evolving across the vibrant landscapes of stage, motion pictures, and, most prominently, television. His remarkable adaptability allowed him to seamlessly transition between dramatic intensity, comedic timing, and the spontaneous wit required for game show appearances.

Beyond his captivating performances in front of the camera, Bixby also demonstrated considerable talent behind it. He notably directed numerous episodes of some of his most iconic television series, including both The Courtship of Eddie's Father and The Incredible Hulk, showcasing his comprehensive understanding of storytelling and production. His presence on game shows like Match Game and Password Plus further solidified his public image as a charming and intelligent personality, capable of quick humor and engaging interaction.

Iconic Television Roles That Defined a Generation

Throughout his extensive career, Bill Bixby became synonymous with several beloved characters, each demonstrating his impressive range and ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.

Tim O'Hara in My Favorite Martian (1963-1966)

One of Bixby's early breakout roles was as newspaper reporter Tim O'Hara in the popular CBS sitcom, My Favorite Martian. As the grounded straight man to Ray Walston's eccentric extraterrestrial, Uncle Martin, Bixby's portrayal was crucial in anchoring the show's fantastical premise, contributing significantly to its widespread appeal and solidifying his status as a leading television actor in the 1960s.

Tom Corbett in The Courtship of Eddie's Father (1969-1972)

Bixby further charmed audiences as Tom Corbett, a widowed magazine publisher navigating the challenges of single parenthood, in the ABC dramedy The Courtship of Eddie's Father. This series, recognized for its heartwarming blend of humor and poignant drama, showcased Bixby's nuanced ability to convey both vulnerability and strength as a loving father. He also directed multiple episodes of the series, demonstrating his creative control and vision.

Anthony Blake in The Magician (1973-1974)

In the NBC crime drama The Magician, Bixby took on the unique role of Anthony Blake, a wealthy stage illusionist who used his skills to solve crimes. For this role, Bixby reportedly learned numerous magic tricks, adding an authentic layer to his character and captivating viewers with a blend of mystery, spectacle, and intellectual prowess.

Dr. David Banner in The Incredible Hulk (1978-1982)

Perhaps Bixby's most enduring and globally recognized role was that of Dr. David Banner in the CBS science-fiction drama series, The Incredible Hulk. In this series, based on the Marvel Comics character, Bixby portrayed a brilliant but tormented scientist whose exposure to gamma radiation caused him to transform into a monstrous green behemoth whenever he became angry or stressed. Bixby's nuanced performance captured the deep pathos and internal struggle of a man desperately seeking a cure for his condition while constantly on the run. He brought a profound human element to the character, making audiences empathize with Banner's tragic existence. The series was a massive success, leading to several follow-up television movies, all of which Bixby starred in and often directed, including The Incredible Hulk Returns (1988), The Trial of the Incredible Hulk (1989), and The Death of the Incredible Hulk (1990).

Legacy and Enduring Appeal

Bill Bixby's legacy is defined by his professionalism, his remarkable versatility, and his ability to inhabit characters with depth and authenticity. From comedic leads to dramatic heroes, he left an indelible mark on television history, continuing to captivate new generations of viewers through reruns and streaming platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bill Bixby

What was Bill Bixby's full name?
His full birth name was Wilfred Bailey Everett Bixby III.
What were Bill Bixby's most famous television roles?
Bill Bixby is most widely recognized for his starring roles as Tim O'Hara in My Favorite Martian, Tom Corbett in The Courtship of Eddie's Father, and particularly as Dr. David Banner in The Incredible Hulk.
Did Bill Bixby direct any of his shows?
Yes, Bill Bixby was also a director. He directed numerous episodes of both The Courtship of Eddie's Father and The Incredible Hulk, including the final three TV movies of The Incredible Hulk series.
Was Bill Bixby a real magician for The Magician?
While Bill Bixby was not a professional magician before the show, he reportedly received training and learned many magic tricks to convincingly portray his character, Anthony Blake, a stage illusionist, adding to the authenticity of his performance.