William Smithers, the veteran character actor who brought the ruthless oilman Jeremy Wendell to life on the iconic soap opera Dallas, has passed away at the age of 98. Smithers' career was a testament to his versatility and talent, as he seamlessly transitioned from the stage to the screen, leaving an indelible mark on both. His portrayal of Wendell, a cutthroat oil tycoon who made J.R. Ewing look like a choirboy, is perhaps his most memorable role. However, Smithers' impact on the entertainment industry goes beyond his on-screen performances. He was a trailblazer, a man who fought for his rights and left a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment law.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Smithers' career is his ability to portray such a wide range of characters. From the principled infantry officer in Attack to the unbending Warden Barrot in Papillon, he was a master of transformation. His performance as Barrot, the harsh and unforgiving warden in the 1973 film, is particularly memorable. In the film, Barrot tells Steve McQueen's imprisoned character, 'The rule here is total silence. We make no pretense of rehabilitation here. We're not priests, we're processors. A meat-packer processes live animals into edible ones. We process dangerous men into harmless ones. This we accomplish by breaking you.' This quote not only showcases Smithers' ability to embody a complex character but also highlights the darker side of the prison system.
What makes Smithers' story even more intriguing is his legal battle with MGM. In 1976, while starring in the short-lived CBS drama Executive Suite, he sued the studio, claiming they had violated his contract. The case, Smithers vs. MGM, is now taught in entertainment law courses. Smithers' determination to stand up for his rights, despite the threat of being blacklisted, is a testament to his courage and conviction. He won the case, and his victory set a precedent for future actors and artists.
Smithers' personal life was just as fascinating as his career. Born in Richmond, Virginia, in 1927, he moved to Elizabeth, New Jersey, with his family when he was just 6 years old. His early life was marked by tragedy, as his father passed away when he was 12. Despite these challenges, he pursued his passion for acting. He attended Hampden-Sydney College and Catholic University before moving to New York in 1950 to pursue an acting career. His Broadway debut came in 1951, when he and Olivia de Havilland starred together in a production of Romeo and Juliet. Smithers' ability to connect with his fellow actors and his dedication to his craft were evident in his early years.
In conclusion, William Smithers was more than just an actor. He was a trailblazer, a man who fought for his rights and left a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment law. His ability to portray such a wide range of characters and his determination to stand up for himself are a testament to his talent and courage. As we reflect on his life and career, we are reminded of the power of perseverance and the impact one person can have on the world of entertainment. Smithers' story is a reminder that, in the face of adversity, we can all strive to be the best version of ourselves.
