William Powell
American actor
William Powell Rank
About William Powell
William Powell was an American cinema and stage actor who starred mostly as a villain in a variety of films. He is most known for his role as Nick Charles in the "Thin Man" flicks. In 1921, he made his Broadway debut in "The Ne'er-Do-Well," in which he played minor roles. He was cast as Professor Moriarty in the silent film "Sherlock Holmes."
He acted in almost 30 silent films, mostly as a ruthless villain, including "The Last Command," "Beau Geste," and "Romola."
He shot to fame as Philo Vance in “The Canary Murder Case” which opened the flood gates for an illustrious career.
William Powell’s movies
His other works were in:
- "The Beautiful City"
- "Partners in Crime"
- "Shadow of the Law"
- "How to Marry a Millionaire"
Family
His mother’s name is Nettie Manila and his father’s name is Horatio Warren Powell. He married Eileen Wilson in 1915, with whom he had his child, William David Powell, before divorcing amicably in 1930. He married actress Carole Lombard in 1931. The marriage only lasted a few years. He married actress Diana Lewis, his third wife, in 1940, and they stayed married until his death in 1984.
Accolades
- Academy Awards, USA - "Best Actor in a Leading Role" - nominee (1935, 1937, and 1948)
- New York Film Critics Circle Awards - "Best Actor" - winner (1947)
Trivia
He was a lifelong Republican.
He was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Motion Pictures in 1936.
Death
He committed suicide by slashing himself continuously in the upper body while in the shower in 1968. Before his death he suffered from depression and had renal difficulties (due to rectal cancer) that prompted him to stop writing.
William Powell Rank
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F.A.Q. about William Powell
When is his birthday?
William Powell's birthday is on July 29, 1892.
In how many days is his birthday?
William's birthday is in 156 days
How old was William when he died?
He was 91 years old.
When did he die?
He died in March 5, 1984.
How old would he be today?
William Powell would be 132 years old if he was alive today.
Where was William from?
He was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S..