William Powell

Date of Birth: July 29, 1892

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: March 5, 1984

Biography

William Horatio Powell was a renowned American actor, celebrated for his sophisticated and debonair screen presence. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Powell began his career on the stage before transitioning to silent films in the early 1920s. He gained fame with his role in “The Canary Murder Case” (1929) and achieved stardom in the 1930s with his portrayal of detective Nick Charles in “The Thin Man” series, alongside Myrna Loy. His career spanned over five decades, during which he appeared in more than 80 films. Powell was known for his versatility, appearing in comedies, dramas, and mysteries. He received three Academy Award nominations for Best Actor over his illustrious career. Powell retired from acting in the early 1950s and lived a quiet life until his death in 1984.

5 Interesting Facts about William Powell

1. William Powell starred as Nick Charles in six “The Thin Man” films from 1934 to 1947.

2. He was married three times, including to actress Carole Lombard from 1931 to 1933.

3. Powell received three Academy Award nominations for Best Actor for his roles in “The Thin Man” (1934), “My Man Godfrey” (1936), and “Life with Father” (1947).

4. Despite his sophisticated on-screen persona, Powell was known for his practical jokes and sense of humor off-screen.

5. He was a close friend and frequent collaborator of actress Myrna Loy, with whom he co-starred in 14 films.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from William Powell

1. “There is more mental satisfaction in producing a first-rate commercial picture than in a second-rate masterpiece.”

2. “My friends have stood by because they know me, but in this world, friends do not mean much.”

3. “A good many dramatic situations begin with screaming.”

4. “The only real happiness a man will ever know is from relationships.”

5. “I have a face that is a cross between two pounds of halibut and an explosion in an old clothes closet.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, William Powell’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million, which would be equivalent to approximately $50 million today after adjusting for inflation.

Children

William Powell had one child, a son named William David Powell, who was born in 1925. William David Powell worked as a television writer and producer but tragically died by suicide in 1968.