Bill Edwards was an American actor who is best known for “Tora! Tora! Tora!”, “Hawaii Five-O”, and “Bonanza”. He was born on September 14, 1918, in New Jersey and passed away on December 21, 1999, in Newport Beach, California.
Personal and Family Life
Bill Edwards had a diverse life before fully committing to acting. Initially, he pursued art at the Art Students League in New York, supporting himself as a model. He was married to Hazel Allen twice, first from 1946 until their divorce in the mid-1970s, and then they remarried until his death. They had one daughter together named Linda.
Career Highlights
Bill’s film career began in the early 1940s when he signed with Warner Brothers. He appeared in several films, often in minor roles, before moving to Paramount Pictures, where he gained more significant parts. Edwards later transitioned to television, featuring in popular shows like “Magnum, P.I.” and “Hawaii Five-O”, but eventually returned to his passion for art and became known for his paintings of the Old West.
Death and Legacy
Bill Edwards struggled with a muscular disease in his later years and died from pneumonia at the age of 81. He left behind a legacy as both an actor and an artist, known for his contributions to the art community and memorable performances in a variety of television and film roles.
Filmography
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Magnum, P.I. | 1982–1987 | William T. Maxfield |
| Blood & Orchids | 1986 | George Elmendorf |
| Gidget’s Summer Reunion | 1985 | Harry Schaffer |
| Hawaii Five-O | 1971–1979 | John Tarnow |
| Pearl | 1978 | Dr. Begeham |
| Tora! Tora! Tora! | 1970 | Col. Kendall J. Fielder (uncredited) |
| Bonanza | 1960–1966 | Hoffman/Merchant |
| Sea Hunt | 1961 | USCG Commander Murdock |
| Dragnet | 1957 | Guest Role |
| Death Valley Days | 1956 | Captain Charles Carter |