William Petersen

Born:February 21, 1953

Place of Birth:Evanston, Illinois, USA

Known For:Acting

Biography

William Petersen, a versatile American actor and producer, has made a significant mark in the entertainment industry with his compelling performances. Known for his portrayal of the meticulous Dr. Gilbert "Gil" Grissom in the acclaimed series CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Petersen's talent extends beyond television screens.

Hailing from Evanston, Illinois, Petersen's journey into acting was serendipitous. While attending Idaho State University on a football scholarship, he discovered his passion for the craft and delved into the world of drama. This pivotal moment led him to explore acting further, eventually taking him to the Basque country, where he immersed himself in Shakespearean theater. The Basque lifestyle left a lasting impact on Petersen, influencing not only his work but also his personal life and artistic endeavors.

After honing his skills with the renowned Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Petersen catapulted to fame with his role as Richard Chance in the gritty 1985 film To Live and Die in L.A. His riveting portrayal caught the attention of audiences and critics alike, setting the stage for his diverse career in both film and television.

One of Petersen's most memorable roles came in the form of Will Graham in the gripping thriller Manhunter, the first adaptation of Thomas Harris's Hannibal Lecter series. His nuanced performance as the tormented FBI profiler showcased his ability to delve deep into complex characters, earning him praise for his depth and authenticity on screen.

Throughout his career, Petersen has showcased his versatility by taking on a range of roles in crime dramas and thrillers, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and talented actor. However, it was his portrayal of Dr. Gil Grissom in CSI: Crime Scene Investigation that truly solidified his status as a television icon.

Petersen's decade-long portrayal of the enigmatic forensic entomologist captivated audiences worldwide, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan following. His meticulous attention to detail and understated intensity brought depth to the character, making Dr. Grissom a standout figure in the realm of crime procedural television.

In recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry, Petersen was honored with a star on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame on February 3, 2009. This accolade serves as a testament to his enduring impact on film and television, solidifying his status as a respected and revered figure in the world of entertainment.

Beyond his on-screen accomplishments, Petersen's passion for storytelling extends to his work as a producer, where he continues to champion compelling narratives and complex characters. With a career spanning decades and a legacy that continues to resonate with audiences, William Petersen remains a formidable talent in the realm of acting and production.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Fear

Steve Walker

1996

Nicole Walker always dreamed of being swept away by someone special — someone strong, sexy and sensitive who would care for her more than anything else in the world. David is all that and more: a modern-day knight who charms and seduces her, body and soul. But her perfect boyfriend is not all he seems to be. His sweet facade masks a savage, dark side that will soon transform Nicole's dream into a nightmare.

12 Angry Men

Juror 12

1997

During the trial of a man accused of his father's murder, a lone juror takes a stand against the guilty verdict handed down by the others as a result of their preconceptions and prejudices.

Thief

Katz & Jammer Bartender

1981

Frank is an expert professional safecracker, specialized in high-profile diamond heists. He plans to use his ill-gotten income to retire from crime and build a nice life for himself complete with a home, wife and kids. To accelerate the process, he signs on with a top gangster for a big score.

To Live and Die in L.A.

Richard Chance

1985

When his longtime partner on the force is killed, reckless U.S. Secret Service agent Richard Chance vows revenge, setting out to nab dangerous counterfeit artist Eric Masters.

Young Guns II

Patrick Floyd 'Pat' Garrett

1990

Three of the original five "young guns" — Billy the Kid, Jose Chavez y Chavez, and Doc Scurlock — return in Young Guns, Part 2, which is the story of Billy the Kid and his race to safety in Old Mexico while being trailed by a group of government agents led by Pat Garrett.

Seeking a Friend for the End of the World

Trucker

2012

As an asteroid nears Earth, a man finds himself alone after his wife leaves in a panic. He decides to take a road trip to reunite with his high school sweetheart. Accompanying him is a neighbor who inadvertently puts a wrench in his plan.

The Skulls

Ames Levritt

2000

A senior at an Ivy League college, who depends on scholarships and working on the side, gets accepted into the secret society The Skulls. He hopes it betters chances at Harvard but The Skulls is not what he thought and comes at a price.

Manhunter

Will Graham

1986

FBI Agent Will Graham, who retired after catching Hannibal Lecter, returns to duty to engage in a risky cat-and-mouse game with Lecter to capture a new killer.