How Old Is Bill Bixby
Bill Bixby, born Wilfred Bailey Everett Bixby III on January 22, 1934, in San Francisco, California, was an American actor, director, and producer. He passed away on November 21, 1993, at the age of 59 in Los Angeles, California. Bixby’s career spanned several decades, and he gained recognition for his roles in the CBS sitcom “My Favorite Martian,” the ABC sitcom “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father,” the NBC crime drama series “The Magician,” and the CBS science-fiction drama series “The Incredible Hulk.” He was known for his talent and versatility as an actor and for his contributions to the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Education
Wilfred Bailey Everett Bixby III, best known as Bill Bixby, was born on January 22, 1934, in San Francisco, California. He came from humble beginnings, being the son of Wilfred Bailey Everett Bixby II, a store clerk, and Jane McFarland Bixby, a senior manager at I. Magnin & Co.
Bixby grew up as an only child in California, where he attended Grace Cathedral for a period but was eventually expelled from the church choir. After completing high school, he decided to pursue his passion for drama against his parents’ wishes and enrolled in City College of San Francisco to major in drama.
However, Bixby’s thirst for knowledge and experience led him to the University of California, Berkeley. Even though he didn’t graduate from the university, his time there further nurtured his love for acting and set him on the path to Hollywood.
Upon moving to Hollywood, Bixby took on various odd jobs while relentlessly pursuing his dream of becoming an actor. His perseverance and dedication eventually paid off, propelling him to a successful career in the entertainment industry.
Career and Legacy
Bill Bixby’s career was primarily focused on television, where he left a lasting impact. One of his notable roles was in the popular show “My Favorite Martian,” where he portrayed Tim O’Hara, a newspaper reporter who hosts a visitor from another planet. This comedic science-fiction sitcom showcased Bixby’s talent for delivering humor alongside his charismatic performance.
In “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father,” Bixby took on the role of Tom Corbett, a widowed father raising his young son. This heartwarming ABC sitcom resonated with audiences, thanks to Bixby’s relatable portrayal and the show’s endearing themes of love and family.
Bixby’s talent extended beyond comedy, as demonstrated by his role as Anthony Blake in “The Magician,” a captivating crime drama series. Bixby’s portrayal of a magician cum detective captivated audiences but unfortunately, the show ended after just one season. Despite its short run, Bixby’s performance left a lasting impression on viewers.
However, Bixby’s most iconic role came in “The Incredible Hulk,” where he played Dr. David Banner, a physician who transforms into a green monster when angered. This hit CBS science-fiction drama series propelled Bixby to stardom, showcasing his ability to bring depth and complexity to his characters. His performance as Dr. David Banner remains etched in the memories of fans worldwide.
