On 12th June 2023, Hollywood lost a veteran actor, Treat Williams, at 71. His sudden demise shocked the industry, given that he was a vibrant being, young at heart, and active on his social media till the end.
Celebrities and fans are sending prayers and appreciation for Treat’s remarkable life.
His agent, Barry McPherson, broke the news to the media, confirming the actor’s demise:
“I’m just devastated. He was the nicest guy. He was so talented,” McPherson told People magazine.
Who Is Treat Williams?
Hollywood in the 70s was blooming with some of the most handsome actors, with the likes of Al Pacino, Robert DeNiro, Dustin Hoffman, Sylvester Stallone, Jack Nicholson, and many more. But some heartthrobs were hidden in the Broadway scene before making their mark in Hollywood.
Treat Williams was one such gem whose first acting break came from a road company for Grease. His rugged, macho looks got him to the Broadway floor, but he still couldn’t make it the center stage. He was an understudy for four actors, including John Travolta.
Even with little to no exposure, he caught the eyes of the right people, landing him major roles in big Broadway productions such as The Pirates of Penzance, Follies, and Love Letters.
Williams made his debut on the silver screen with the 1975 film Hero. He soon amassed a fan following, garnering him accolades and several other roles. Treat received his first Golden Globes Award in 1979 for his role in the hit film Hair.
His versatility knew no bounds, as aptly put by McPherson–
“He was an actor’s actor. Filmmakers loved him. He’s been the heart of… Hollywood since the late 1970s.”
Williams was a credible actor, as evident from his filmography–
- Steven Spielberg’s 1941 (1979)
- Sidney Lumet’s Prince of the City (1981)
- Sergio Leone’s Once Upon a Time in America (1984)
- Dead Heat (1988)
- Things to Do in Denver When You’re Dead (1995)
- Deep Rising (1998)
Williams also created waves in the TV scene with Greg Berlanti’s drama Everwood, playing Dr. Andy Brown, garnering him two SAG nominations.
Who Was Treat Williams in Blue Bloods?
Williams played the recurring role of Lenny Ross on the critically acclaimed show Blue Bloods.
Tom Selleck, who plays the lead in the show, wrote in a statement to PEOPLE magazine:
“It has been said that we are all just passing time and occupy our chair very briefly. My friend Treat was aptly named and occupied his chair so well. I will miss him but I will not forget him. Well done, my friend.”
He is also credited in several other hit shows like White Collar, Confirmation, and other wholesome series; he was the handsome TV dad!
What Happened to Treat Williams?
In an unfortunate incident, Treat Williams met with an accident on Monday at around 5 p.m. while riding on Route 30 by Long Trail Auto near Dorset, Vermont. As per the reports by the fire chief for Dorset, Jacob Gribble, a car took a left turn but couldn’t spot Williams’s motorcycle in time, thus leading to a collision. He was thrown out of his bike from the intense crash, sustaining “critical injuries.” Considering his age and the impact of the accident, the situation was not looking so good.
Treat was then airlifted to a hospital in Albany, New York, eventually pronounced dead.
He is survived by his wife and actress Pam Van Sant, with his two children, Gille and Ellie. Treat Williams’ family issued the following statement to the media:
“It is with great sadness that we report that our beloved Treat Williams has passed away tonight in Dorset, Vt. 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.”
What are your thoughts on Treat’s sudden demise? What was your favorite movie starring Treat? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.
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