William Devane: More Than Just JFK and "Knots Landing"
William Devane. The name may not resonate with everyone. Yet his face is familiar. Especially if you watch political or dramatic TV. He exudes authority and charm. Devane isn’t just an actor. He changes roles like a chameleon. From presidents to soap opera villains, he slips seamlessly.
The Kennedyesque Charm: Devane as JFK
Devane played powerful figures throughout his career. One role stands out: John F. Kennedy. The resemblance captivates audiences. His ability to mimic the Boston accent makes it even more convincing. This performance is much more than imitation. Devane captures Kennedy's spirit deeply.
His standout performance as JFK was in "The Missiles of October." This wasn't merely a drama. It retold a critical historical moment. Devane anchored the entire film with his performance. Interestingly, Martin Sheen starred as Robert F. Kennedy, creating a dynamic duo.
The JFK connection continues through his career. Devane's portrayal resonates strongly. Even in non-JFK roles, he carries presidential authority. In "The West Wing," "24," and "Stargate SG-1," he often plays leaders. Hollywood seems to know his strengths well. "Need a commanding presence? Call Devane," they say.
Beyond the Oval Office: TV Roles Galore
While JFK roles are iconic, calling Devane just a presidential impersonator misses the mark. He possesses great range. Many recognize him as Greg Sumner in the soap opera "Knots Landing." "Knots Landing" dominated ratings, filled with drama and intrigue, and he thrived in it.
Devane’s TV history boasts many genres. From gripping political tension in "The West Wing" to high-octane action in "24," he delivers each time. His intensity shines especially in "24: Live Another Day." Recently he appeared in "Bosch: Legacy" and "The Grinder," showing versatility across genres.
His work in "Knots Landing" brings to mind Ted Shackelford. Shackelford passed away in 2019 and played Gary Ewing. He also starred in "Dallas," another iconic soap. Soap operas built and sustained many careers, and both actors excelled in that arena.
From Big Screen to Small Screen: Devane's Movie Ventures
Devane's talents extend beyond television screens. He starred in various films, too. Certainly, "The Missiles of October" connects both film and television formats. But he appeared in many movies across multiple genres.
Devane has a familiar face in "Jesse Stone: Lost in Paradise," starring Tom Selleck. He also appeared in "Truth," which explores journalistic integrity. And who could forget his role in "Interstellar," a Nolan sci-fi masterpiece? Devane also took smaller roles in films like "50 to 1" and "Bad Turn Worse," embracing diverse projects.
Beyond Acting: Horses, Restaurants, and the Gentlemanly Life
Devane's life extends beyond Hollywood. He leads a textured life outside acting. Ever heard of Thermal, California? It’s where Devane operates Deer Creek Ranch. He breeds horses, an admirable pursuit. This lifestyle contrasts with Hollywood’s glitz but aligns with his sophisticated image.
If horses weren't sufficient, he explored the restaurant business. He owned "Devane's," a popular New York-Italian restaurant. It began in Indio and expanded to Rancho Mirage. This venture shows his entrepreneurial spirit and love for good food, painting him as a man of varied interests.
Personal Touches: Family and Legacy
Behind his public persona lie joys and sorrows. William Devane’s estimated net worth is $5 million, reflecting a distinguished career. But life brought tragedy too. In 2016, Devane faced a heartbreaking loss. His oldest son died at age 27 from brain cancer. It highlights that even successful figures endure profound pain.
A Quick Word on Other Notables
The entertainment world reveals intertwined lives. Devane's career connects to many figures. Take Brett Harrelson, brother of Woody Harrelson. Then there's Ned Beatty, known for over 160 film roles. Phillipson had a brief role in "Jackie." He also resembles JFK, demonstrating Hollywood's fascination with that look.
Historically, many notable "Williams" exist. William Lloyd Garrison fought against slavery. William B. Hartsfield, the mayor of Atlanta, earned the title "Father of Aviation." William Adams became a samurai in Japan. General William Sherman played a critical Civil War role. Ronald Reagan, also an actor-turned-president, mirrors Devane’s path.
Soap operas weave fascinating connections. Susan Lucci, a daytime drama queen, excels alongside Demi Moore who started in "General Hospital." Lacey Chabert began in "All My Children." Ivan Allen Jr., known for WWII service and Atlanta's mayoralty, adds depth to the narratives of Williams in both history and the entertainment world.
In a larger historical context, Robert E. Lee and General Ulysses S. Grant symbolize the Civil War era. JFK’s era echoed across history when division and leadership defined public sentiment. This link illustrates how history and Hollywood intertwine unexpectedly.
William Devane thrives as a versatile actor. He’s more than JFK or Greg Sumner. With grace and grit, he navigates Hollywood, leaving a remarkable and varied body of work behind.
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