“He Was an Actor’s Actor”-Hollywood Pays Tribute to Treat Williams

Actor Treat Williams star of Hair and Everwood
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Remembering to Treat Williams: A Hollywood Icon

Treat Williams in Everwood
Treat Williams in Everwood

The sudden demise of Treat Williams, the renowned film and television actor, has left Hollywood in a state of mourning. Williams tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident at 71, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be cherished.

Barry McPherson, Williams’ agent at APA, confirmed the devastating news in a heartfelt statement to The Hollywood Reporter. Describing Williams as “an actor’s actor,” McPherson expressed the deep admiration filmmakers had for him, highlighting his significant contributions to the industry since the late 1970s.

A Legendary Career: From Everwood to Chesapeake Shores

Throughout his illustrious career spanning six decades, Treat Williams graced both the small and big screens with his remarkable talent. He captured the hearts of audiences worldwide through his portrayal of a New York City neurosurgeon that uproots his family to Colorado in the WB, Everwood. Williams also showcased his acting prowess in notable films like Sidney Lumet’s Prince of the City and Milos Forman’s Hair. Most recently, he captivated audiences as a series regular in the Netflix drama, Chesapeake Shores.

U.S. actors Don Dacus, Annie Golden, Treat Williams, Beverly d'Angelo, director Milos Forman, and Cheryl Barnes arrive for the presentation of Hair during the 32nd Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, 1979
U.S. actors Don Dacus, Annie Golden, Treat Williams, Beverly D’Angelo, director Milos Forman, and Cheryl Barnes arrive for the presentation of Hair during the 32nd Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, 1979

Hollywood’s Heartfelt Tributes

The news of Treat Williams’ passing sent shockwaves through Hollywood, prompting a flood of heartfelt tributes from his colleagues and friends.

Actor James Woods took to Twitter to express his profound grief, “Treat and I spent months in Rome filming Once Upon a Time in America. It can be pretty lonely on the road during a long shoot, but his resilient good cheer, and sense of humor were a Godsend. I really loved him and am devastated that he’s gone. #RIP #TreatWilliams”

Renowned critic Richard Roeper also paid tribute to Williams on Twitter, acknowledging the actor’s warm and peaceful presence. Roeper expressed his sorrow upon hearing the news, emphasizing the joy he experienced following Williams’ career.

Writer Mark Harris shared his shock at the tragic news, hailing Treat Williams as a remarkable actor and a generous soul. Harris urged fans to watch Williams’ star-making performance in Hair, immerse themselves in Sidney Lumet’s masterpiece, Prince of the City, and not miss his captivating role in The Ritz.

Best-selling writer Don Winslow joined the chorus of tributes, fondly remembering Williams as an exceptional actor and a remarkable individual. Winslow shared a personal connection with Williams, having worked with him on a television series. He commended Williams’ unforgettable performance in Prince of the City, considering it one of the greatest performances he had ever witnessed.

Remembering to Treat Williams: A Lasting Impact

The outpouring of tributes for Treat Williams reflects the profound impact he had on his peers and fans alike. His genuine love for his family, his craft, and life itself shone through in all his endeavors. The news of his passing has left his loved ones devastated, urging everyone to respect their privacy during this difficult time. To his legions of fans, Treat Williams held immense appreciation, and they are encouraged to keep his memory alive in their hearts and prayers.

The legacy of Treat Williams will forever be etched in the annals of Hollywood.

Williams is survived by his wife, actress Pam Van Sant, and their children, Gille and Ellie.

A Statement on the Passing of Treat Williams


It is with great sadness that we report that our beloved Treat Williams has passed away tonight in Dorset, Vermont after a fatal motorcycle accident. As you can imagine, we are shocked and greatly bereaved at this time.


Treat was full of love for his family, for his life and for his craft, and was truly at the top of his game in all of it. It is all so shocking right now, but please know that Treat was dearly and deeply loved and respected by his family and everyone who knew him.


We are beyond devastated and ask that you respect our privacy as we deal with our grief. To all his fans, please know that Treat appreciated all of you and please continue to keep him in your hearts and prayers.

The Williams Family