William Hopper, American actor (d. 1970)

William DeWolf Hopper Jr.: A Legacy from Hollywood Royalty to Television Icon

William DeWolf Hopper Jr. (January 26, 1915 – March 6, 1970) was an American actor who carved out a notable career across stage, film, and television. His life in Hollywood was intrinsically linked to his prominent parents, yet he ultimately forged his own distinct path, culminating in a defining role that captivated millions of viewers.

Early Life and Hollywood Pedigree

Born into the very fabric of Hollywood's burgeoning entertainment industry, William Hopper Jr. was the only child of two celebrated figures. His father was the prolific stage and silent film actor, DeWolf Hopper, known for his commanding presence and extensive theatrical work. His mother was the equally impactful actress and, later, the formidable Hollywood columnist Hedda Hopper. A powerful and often controversial figure, Hedda Hopper leveraged her widely syndicated column to exert immense influence over careers and public opinion in the industry. She was notably a prominent proponent of the Hollywood Blacklist during the McCarthy era, a period marked by intense anti-communist sentiment that led to many individuals in the entertainment industry being unjustly ostracized and deprived of work.

A Career of Minor Roles and Wartime Service

Despite his esteemed lineage, William Hopper Jr.'s initial foray into acting saw him primarily relegated to minor, often uncredited roles within the rigid studio system of the 1930s and 1940s. He appeared in more than 80 feature films during this period, typically as bit players, supporting characters, or uncredited background figures. His roles included appearances in films such as The Maltese Falcon (1941), though often without on-screen credit. Following his service in the United States Navy during World War II, a period when many actors paused their careers to contribute to the war effort, Hopper initially chose to step away from the demanding world of acting.

The Return to Acting and a Defining Television Role

In the mid-1950s, William Hopper Jr. was successfully persuaded to reignite his film career by the acclaimed director William A. Wellman, known for classics like Wings and The Ox-Bow Incident. Wellman offered Hopper a role in his critically acclaimed 1954 aviation drama, The High and the Mighty, marking a significant turning point. However, it was his transition to television that would ultimately define his legacy. Hopper became best known for his iconic portrayal of Paul Drake, the quick-witted, resourceful private investigator and loyal associate of defense attorney Perry Mason, in the immensely popular CBS television series Perry Mason. Airing from 1957 to 1966, the show became a cultural phenomenon, and Drake's character, known for his sharp deductive skills and indispensable legwork, played a crucial role in helping Mason solve complex criminal cases week after week. This role cemented Hopper's place in television history and remains his most iconic performance, showcasing his ability to bring a nuanced, reliable presence to the screen.

Frequently Asked Questions About William DeWolf Hopper Jr.

Who was William DeWolf Hopper Jr.?
William DeWolf Hopper Jr. was an American actor who had a career spanning stage, film, and television, best known for his role as Paul Drake in the TV series Perry Mason.
What was William Hopper's most famous role?
William Hopper's most famous and defining role was that of Paul Drake, the private investigator and loyal assistant to the titular character in the long-running CBS television series Perry Mason (1957-1966).
Who were William Hopper's parents?
William Hopper Jr. was the only child of two notable figures in entertainment: silent film and stage actor DeWolf Hopper, and actress and influential Hollywood columnist Hedda Hopper, who was a prominent proponent of the Hollywood Blacklist.
Did William Hopper serve in the military?
Yes, William Hopper Jr. served in the United States Navy during World War II, taking a hiatus from his acting career for his service.