Exploring the Legacy of Treat Williams, ‘Everwood’ and ‘Deep Rising’ Star

Treat Williams, Veteran Actor of ‘Everwood’ and ‘Blue Bloods,’ Dies in Motorcycle Accident

The Hollywood industry is mourning the sudden death of veteran actor Treat Williams who passed away on Monday, August 8, 2022, at the age of 71. Williams died as a result of a motorcycle accident in Dorset, Vermont, where a driver reportedly turned left and struck his motorcycle. Williams’ long-time agent, Barry McPherson, confirmed the news and expressed his devastation at the loss of a dear friend and one of the Hollywood industry’s most talented actors.

Williams’ Career

Williams was born as Richard Treat Williams in Rowayton, Connecticut. He studied theater in college and moved to New York shortly after graduating. He made his Broadway debut in “Grease” and later replaced John Travolta as Danny Zuko. His versatile screen career included an early role in director Milos Forman’s adaptation of the musical “Hair” in 1979, followed by a starring role in the gritty crime drama “Prince of the City” in 1981, directed by Sidney Lumet.

Although Williams appeared to be destined for major stardom, his next several movies didn’t equal that early promise, though he continued to work steadily, including in TV movie remakes of “A Streetcar Named Desire” and additional TV movies in which he played boxer Jack Dempsey and FBI chief J. Edgar Hoover. In the ’90s, Williams segued into different kinds of roles, playing the villain in the “The Phantom” and super-agent Michael Ovitz in the HBO movie based on the book “The Late Shift.”

However, Williams found renewed success in television in the 2000s. He starred in the CW series “Everwood” for four seasons and a recent stint on the “Chicago Fire.” He also appeared as part of the core cast of “Chesapeake Shores” and co-starred in the HBO miniseries “We Own This City” in 2021.

Williams’ Legacy

Treat Williams’ legacy in Hollywood is that of an “actor’s actor.” He was respected and loved by his colleagues across the industry, who acknowledged his immense talent and the impact he had throughout his career. Williams’ versatility as an actor allowed him to deliver captivating performances on stage, screen, and television.

Moreover, Williams’ contributions to the film industry go beyond his work on stage and screen. He was involved in philanthropic endeavors as well and was an active participant in the performing arts community. Williams’ death is a great loss to the entertainment world and will be felt for years to come.

Advice to Young Actors

In 2020, Williams shared an “Acting Lessons” video for Netflix in which he provided advice to young actors. He advised them to “be concerned with what you’re doing, not how you’re doing.” In other words, actors should be focused on delivering a truthful performance rather than trying to impress others with their acting skills.

This advice is not only relevant to young actors but to anyone who wants to succeed in their profession. Being focused on the task, and not on others’ perception, can lead to great work and a sense of personal fulfillment.

Conclusion

The entertainment world has lost a gifted actor in Treat Williams. His incredible talent, range, versatility, and dedication to his craft will continue to inspire those who knew him and the generations to come.

Williams once said, “The thrill I still get when the curtain goes up blows me away.” It is our hope that Williams’ legacy will continue to inspire actors, producers, directors, and theater enthusiasts to appreciate and savor the magic of live performance and continue to pursue storytelling that captivates audiences worldwide.