William Paterson was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Dirty Harry,” “A Christmas Carol,” and “Pacific Heights.” He had a storied career in theater and film, contributing significantly to the acting community over several decades.
Personal and Family Life
William Paterson was born on July 7, 1919, in Buffalo, New York. He graduated from Brown University and spent much of his career performing at The Cleveland Play House for 20 years. Paterson was a prominent figure in the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco, where he played significant roles in various productions.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Paterson was known for his strong performances in both theater and film. He starred in notable plays such as “A Long Day’s Journey Into Night” and “You Can’t Take It With You,” and received several awards for his work. He was well-respected in the industry, participating in numerous national tours and serving on the San Francisco Arts Commission.
Death and Legacy
William Paterson passed away on September 3, 2003, in San Francisco, California, after battling lung cancer. His contributions to theater and film left a lasting impression, and he is remembered for his talent and dedication to the performing arts.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Dirty Harry | 1971-12-23 | Bannerman |
| A Christmas Carol | 1981-12-21 | Ebenezer Scrooge |
| Pacific Heights | 1990-09-28 | Mr. Hill |
| Hear No Evil | 1982-11-20 | Minister |
| At Long Last Love | 1975-03-01 | Murray (Poker Party) |
| The Taming of the Shrew | 1976-11-10 | Baptista |
| Nichols | 1971-09-16 | Banker Perkins |