Is William Devane in a Wheelchair in Real Life?
Let’s clear things up—no, William Devane isn’t in a wheelchair in real life. Even in his retirement, this Hollywood legend is still active, enjoying his time with his family, especially his “grandkids”. With a career spanning over decades, Devane’s been a household name for years, bringing to life roles that have stuck with fans and shaped TV and film history.
A Brief Biography of William Devane
Born on September 5, 1939, Devane is an actor many of us recognize instantly, especially from his iconic roles on TV. If you were a fan of Knots Landing, you’ll remember him as the ambitious Greg Sumner, the character who added layers of intrigue and drama to the show from 1983 to 1993.
Later, he won over another generation of fans as James Heller in the intense political thriller series 24. From 2001 to 2010, and then again in 2014’s 24: Live Another Day, Devane’s portrayal of Heller was a mix of grit and gravitas that added depth to the show’s fast-paced storylines.
Also Read: Joshua Devane Wiki: Biography, Age– William Devane’s Son
Hollywood on the Big Screen
William Devane’s charm isn’t just limited to TV; he’s made a serious mark on the big screen, too. He worked with Alfred Hitchcock in Family Plot (1976), where he brought suspense to life. In Marathon Man (1976), he played a CIA operative in a gripping thriller. The following year, he portrayed a vengeful war veteran in Rolling Thunder (1977), a role that showcased his ability to embody dark, intense characters. And if you’ve seen Payback (1999) or Space Cowboys (2000), you’ll remember Devane’s natural talent for balancing tough characters with a touch of humor and heart.
Did You Know? A Fascinating Family Connection
Here’s a fun bit of trivia— according to sources, William Devane’s father once worked as a chauffeur for none other than Franklin Delano Roosevelt when he was governor of New York. Imagine that! Maybe that bit of family history is part of why Devane has always had such a natural presence in political roles on screen.
Learn More: Eugenie Devane Biography: William Devane’s wife
How William Devane Moved From Shakespeare to TV Stardom
Long before his Hollywood fame, Devane was a dedicated theater actor. He graduated in 1962 from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and quickly made a name for himself in New York. Joining Joseph Papp’s New York Shakespeare Festival, he appeared in over fifteen different Shakespeare productions, taking on roles that built his foundation as an actor. That stage experience gave him a unique edge when he transitioned to television, and it’s one of the reasons he’s been able to deliver such rich, layered performances over the years.
What’s William Devane Up to Now?
These days, Devane is retired and focusing on his family. Though he’s not taking on new roles, his impact on Hollywood is still strong. Whether you’re a fan of his intense dramas or his more lighthearted roles, there’s no denying he’s one of the most respected figures in the industry.
So, in case you were wondering, no, William Devane isn’t in a wheelchair, and he’s doing just fine. His legacy lives on through his unforgettable roles, and his work continues to inspire fans everywhere.
