Billy Dee Williams Net Worth In 2023, Birthday, Age, Wife And Kids
Billy Dee Williams is a TV spokesman, singer, and actor. The movies Billy Dee Williams is most well-known for appearing in are arguably "The Empire Strikes Back," "Return of the Jedi," and "Batman." In this article, we dig into the fascinating tale of Billy Dee Williams net worth and examine how his career decisions and legendary performances have elevated his to financial heights that parallel his creative achievements.
Author:Alex MercerReviewer:Nathanial BlackwoodJan 16, 20243K Shares40.8K Views
Billy Dee Williams is a TV spokesman, singer, and actor. The movies Billy Dee Williams is most well-known for appearing in are arguably "The Empire Strikes Back," "Return of the Jedi," and "Batman." In this article, we dig into the fascinating tale of Billy Dee Williams net worthand examine how his career decisions and legendary performances have elevated his to financial heights that parallel his creative achievements.
Early Life And Education
William December "Billy Dee" Williams Jr., the son of Loretta Anne and William December Williams Sr., was born in New York City on April 6, 1937. While his parents held down many jobs, their grandmother mostly reared him and his twin sister Loretta. His mother had studied to be an opera singer, and the family was well-cultured, exposing the kids to theater, visual arts, and other creative pursuits from a young age.
LaGuardia High School of Music & Performing Arts, where Williams majored in arts with a specialty on visual arts, awarded him his diploma in 1955. He received a two-year scholarship at the National Academy of Fine Arts and Design in New York, where he concentrated on learning the fundamentals of classical painting. He received a Guggenheim Fellowship nomination when he was 19 and earned the Hallgarten Prize in the middle of the 1950s. Later, he trained with Sidney Poitier at the Harlem ActorsWorkshop.
Profile Summary
| Name | Billy Dee Williams |
| Date Of Birth | Apr 6, 1937 |
| Place Of Birth | New York City |
| Gender | Male |
| Profession | Actor, Singer, Artist, Writer, Painter, Voice Actor, Musician, Visual Artist, Music artist |
| Nationality | United States of America |
| Height | 6 ft (1.83 m) |
Career Of Billy Dee Williams
Film Career
William December "Billy Dee" Williams Jr., the son of Loretta Anne and William December Williams Sr., was born in New York City on April 6, 1937. While his parents held down many jobs, their grandmother mostly reared him and his twin sister Loretta. His mother had studied to be an opera singer, and the family was well-cultured, exposing the kids to theater, visual arts, and other creative pursuits from a young age.
LaGuardia High School of Music & Performing Arts, where Williams majored in arts with a specialty on visual arts, awarded him his diploma in 1955. He received a two-year scholarship at the National Academy of Fine Arts and Design in New York, where he concentrated on learning the fundamentals of classical painting. He received a Guggenheim Fellowship nomination when he was 19 and earned the Hallgarten Prize in the middle of the 1950s. Later, he trained with Sidney Poitier at the Harlem Actors Workshop.
TV Career
In his TV career, William played a recurrent guest star on "Gideon's Crossing." He portrayed Brady Lloyd in "Dynasty"'s 1984–1985 season. In the sitcoms "The Jeffersons," "227," and "The Hughleys," he was teamed with Marla Gibbs. Berry Gordy was represented by Williams in the 1992 film "The Jacksons: An American Dream." Williams had a cameo in the 1993 episode of "The Cosby Show, A Different World."
Williams also made a personal appearance on "Martin." Williams appeared as a special guest in 1990 on the sketch comedy program "In Living Color." Pastor Dan was played by Williams in "That '70s Show." Along with this, he had appearances in "Scrubs," "General Hospital," "Titan Maximum," and "The Boondocks." Williams appeared as a guest on the February 2011 episode of "White Color" on USA.
Williams made an unexpected appearance the next year at a recording of "The Oprah Winfrey Show" with Diana Ross. Williams and Ross met together again after being apart for close to three decades. On "Modern Family" in 2013, Williams appeared in a cameo as himself. In 2014, Williams took part in the 18th season of "Dancing with the Stars." He was matched with the professional dancer Emma Slater, however after the third week of the competition the duo had to leave because of Williams' back ailment.
Diverse Career
In addition to having a great career in cinema and television, Billy Dee Williams has also been successful in other fields. He has been a featured visitor at science fiction gatherings for his legendary performance as Lando Calrissian and has starred in ads for Colt 45 malt whiskey. Williams began painting in the late 1980s and has since published two novels, "PSI/Net" and "JUST/In Time," as well as a jazz album titled "Let's Misbehave."
Movies & Earnings
"Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back" (1980)
In this iconic "Star Wars" installment, Billy Dee Williams played the charming and suave Lando Calrissian.
| Domestic Box Office | $291,738,960 |
| International Box Office | $257,262,126 |
| Worldwide Box Office | $549,001,086 |
"Star Wars: Episode VI - Return Of The Jedi" (1983)
Williams reprised his role as Lando Calrissian in the final film of the original "Star Wars" trilogy.
| Domestic Box Office | $316,465,003 |
| International Box Office | $165,900,281 |
| Worldwide Box Office | $482,365,284 |
The Lego Batman Movie (2017)
There are major changes taking place in Gotham, and if Batman wants to stop The Joker's aggressive takeover of the city, he may have to give up being a lone vigilante, attempt to cooperate with others, and maybe, just maybe, learn to laugh at himself.
| Domestic Box Office | $175,750,384 |
| International Box Office | $134,812,712 |
| Worldwide Box Office | $310,563,096 |
"Nighthawks" (1981)
In this action thriller, Williams played a New York City detective alongside Sylvester Stallone.
| Domestic Box Office | $14,600,000 |
| International Box Office | $5,000,000 |
| Worldwide Box Office | $19,600,000 |
"Batman" (1989)
Williams portrayed Harvey Dent, the district attorney of Gotham City, in Tim Burton's original Batman film. Although he did not become Two-Face in this movie, the character's transformation is alluded to.
| Domestic Box Office | $251,188,924 |
| International Box Office | $160,160,000 |
| Worldwide Box Office | $411,348,924 |
The Lego Movie (2014)
It is erroneously believed that Emmet, a regular, law-abiding LEGO minifigure, is the most amazing individual and the key to rescuing the world. Emmet is forced to join a group of strangers on an epic trip to thwart a wicked ruler, but he is woefully unprepared for it.
| Domestic Box Office | $257,784,718 |
| International Box Office | $210,300,000 |
| Worldwide Box Office | $468,084,718 |
The Visit (2000)
"The Visit" is a science fiction film that tells the story of a brother and sister, Michael and Becca, who are sent to visit their grandparents' remote Pennsylvania farm. The siblings' trip starts out as an innocent visit to meet their grandparents for the first time. However, they soon begin to notice strange and unsettling behavior from their elderly grandparents.
| Domestic Box Office | $186,444 |
| International Box Office | $11,529,548 |
| Worldwide Box Office | $11,715,992 |
Billy Dee Williams Net Worth
Billy Dee Williams has a $9 million net worth. He has mostly earned this money via his work in movies and television. His other occupations as a musician, writer, singer, musician, and visual artist have all helped him amass part of his enormous riches.
Real Estate
Billy's longstanding residence was a large Beverly Hills mansion that he purchased in 1984 for $553,000. In 2011, he put the house up for sale for $4.5 million. In the end, he received $2.8 million for it.
Other Ventures
Billy Dee Williams has found success in the realm of TV advertising in addition to his work in movies and television, most notably in the Colt 45 malt liquor ads. For his renowned portrayal of Lando Calrissian, Williams has also been a featured visitor at fan conventions, especially science fiction ones. Williams resumed devoting the bulk of his time to painting in the late 1980s. Williams has authored two novels, "PSI/Net" and "JUST/In Time," as well as the jazz album "Let's Misbehave."
Billy Dee Williams Awards
Here are some of the notable awards and nominations that Billy Dee Williams has received:
- Primetime Emmy Award Nomination -Williams received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for his role as Gale Sayers in the television movie "Brian's Song" (1971).
- Golden Globe Award Nomination -He received a Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Actor in a Television Series - Musical or Comedy for his role in the TV series "Brian's Song" (1971).
- NAACP Image Award -Billy Dee Williams has received several NAACP Image Award nominations throughout his career, recognizing his contributions to African American culture and entertainment.
- Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame -In 1985, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the category of Motion Pictures, recognizing his significant contributions to the film industry.
Interesting Facts
- Billy Dee Williams attended the High School of Music and Art in New York City, where he developed his artistic talents alongside his interest in acting.
- Beyond acting, Billy Dee Williams is a talented painter, with his artwork exhibited in galleries and museums worldwide.
- Lando Calrissian, portrayed by Williams, is one of his most iconic roles, making him a beloved character in the "Star Wars" universe.
- He played Harvey Dent in Tim Burton's "Batman" (1989), setting the stage for the character's eventual transformation into Two-Face.
- Starring alongside Diana Ross, he played Louis McKay in "Lady Sings the Blues" (1972), a biographical film about Billie Holiday.
- Making his Broadway debut in "Hallelujah, Baby!" (1967), he received critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination for his performance.
- Billy Dee Williams became synonymous with Colt 45 malt liquor in the 1980s through his role as the brand's spokesperson.
- His distinctive voice has been featured in various animated series and video games, where he voiced the character Lando Calrissian.
- He is an avid jazz enthusiast, and his love for the genre is evident in his portrayal of Louis McKay in "Lady Sings the Blues."
- Williams has been married three times in his life, with his most recent and enduring marriage to Teruko Nakagami since 1972.
- Although he has never won an Academy Award, Billy Dee Williams has received accolades, including Emmy and Golden Globe nominations.
- He made his directorial debut with "Skyward" (1980), a drama film about a handicapped woman learning to fly.
- Billy Dee Williams is known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting causes such as children's health and civil rights.
- In 1985, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry.
- Even as he has aged, Billy Dee Williams continues to captivate audiences with his timeless charisma, proving that true charm and talent never fade.
Billy Dee Williams Wife
In 1959, Williams married Audrey Sellers for the first time. They had one kid together, Corey Dee Williams, before divorcing a few years later. Williams married Marlene Clark in 1968. They split up in 1971. In December 1972, Teruko Nakagami and he were married. Hanako, their daughter, was born.
After divorcing in 1993, they subsequently made up and were back together by 1997. Williams was detained in January 1996 after being accused of beating his unnamed live-in partner. His $50,000 bail was posted. Williams consented to take part in 52 therapy sessions as part of a plea deal.
Billy Dee Williams Kids
- Corey Dee Williams -Corey Dee Williams is the son of Billy Dee Williams and is also an actor. He appeared in "Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi" (1983) as Klaatu, one of Jabba the Hutt's henchmen. He has also worked as a stuntman and is known for his involvement in various film and television projects.
- Hanako Williams -Hanako Williams is the daughter of Billy Dee Williams. However, there is relatively limited public information available about her, and she has maintained a more private life.
FAQs About Billy Dee Williams
What Is Billy Dee Williams Known For In Star Wars?
Billy Dee Williams is best known for his portrayal of Lando Calrissian, a suave and charismatic character, in the "Star Wars" franchise. He first appeared as Lando in "The Empire Strikes Back" and reprised the role in "Return of the Jedi."
Has Billy Dee Williams Won Any Awards?
While Billy Dee Williams has received critical acclaim for his performances, including Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, he has not won an Academy Award. However, he has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Is Billy Dee Williams A Professional Painter?
Yes, in addition to his acting career, Billy Dee Williams is a professional painter. His artwork has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, showcasing his talent as a visual artist.
Who Did Billy Dee Williams Play In "Lady Sings The Blues"?
In the film "Lady Sings the Blues" (1972), Billy Dee Williams played the character Louis McKay. The movie is a biographical portrayal of the legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday, with Diana Ross in the lead role.
Final Words
In conclusion, Billy Dee Williams is not only a beloved actor but also a talented artist whose creativity knows no bounds. His legacy serves as a reminder that true artistry transcends boundaries and continues to inspire and connect with audiences across the globe. Whether on the silver screen or on canvas, Billy Dee Williams' contributions to the world of art and entertainment will forever be celebrated and cherished.
Billy Dee Williams' impact on both the entertainment industry and the art world is profound and enduring. He has broken down barriers in Hollywood, inspiring future generations of actors and artists with his talent and charisma. His journey from a young artist in Harlem to an international icon exemplifies the power of determination and passion.
Alex Mercer
Author
Alex Mercer is a seasoned author and analyst specializing in wealth research, with a keen focus on evaluating the net worth of individuals across various industries. With over a decade of experience in financial analysis and wealth assessment, Alex has developed a nuanced understanding of the factors that contribute to an individual's financial status, from investments and assets to market trends and economic policies. His work involves in-depth reviews and analyses, providing insightful observations on wealth accumulation, management strategies, and the socio-economic implications of wealth distribution.
Throughout his career, Alex has become known for his ability to distill complex financial data into understandable and engaging narratives, making the subject of wealth and net worth accessible to a broad audience. His expertise is not just in numbers but in telling the stories behind them, highlighting the journeys, strategies, and decisions that lead to financial success or challenges. Alex's contributions to the field of wealth research are valuable resources for anyone looking to understand the dynamics of wealth in today's world, offering a unique perspective that bridges the gap between financial analysis and human interest.
Nathanial Blackwood
Reviewer
Nathanial (Nate) Blackwood is a distinguished financial journalist with a decade of experience in net worth analysis. He holds an Economics degree from the University of Finance and a Data Analysis certification, enabling him to blend thorough insights with engaging storytelling. Nate is known for making complex financial information accessible to a wide audience, earning acclaim for his precise and reader-friendly analyses. Beyond his writing, Nate is dedicated to financial literacy, actively participating in educational forums and workshops.
He is the founder of PureNetWealth, a platform that demystifies the financial achievements of public figures by exploring the strategies and decisions behind their fortunes. Nate's work bridges the gap between intricate economic concepts and the general public, inspiring a deeper understanding of wealth dynamics. Follow Nathanial Blackwood for essential insights into the financial narratives shaping our world.
Latest Articles
Popular Articles