William Daniels: A Timeless American Icon of Stage and Screen

 

William Daniels is a name that resonates with multiple generations of television and film viewers. Best known for his authoritative voice, captivating presence, and versatility as an actor, Daniels has carved a unique niche in American entertainment. From his iconic role as Mr. Feeny in Boy Meets World to his portrayal of President John Adams in 1776, his career spans more than seven decades. His contributions to both screen and stage underscore not only his talent but also his enduring influence on American pop culture.

Early Life and Education

William David Daniels was born on March 31, 1927, in Brooklyn, New York. Raised in a working-class family, he was the eldest of three children. His parents recognized his potential early on and enrolled him and his siblings in music and performance classes. Daniels started his career in show business as a child actor, performing in local radio shows and commercials.

He graduated from Brooklyn’s Erasmus Hall High School and later attended Northwestern University, where he further honed his acting skills. During his college years, Daniels also served in the U.S. Army during World War II, pausing his education temporarily. Upon returning, he completed his degree and eventually made his way to Broadway and television.

Broadway Beginnings and Theater Acclaim

Daniels’ career took off in the theater world, and his performance on Broadway solidified his place among elite stage actors. His breakthrough came in the 1960 musical A Thousand Clowns, but it was his role in the 1969 Broadway musical 1776 that truly made him a household name. Daniels played John Adams, and his performance was so commanding that it led to a reprisal of the role in the 1972 film adaptation.

What made his portrayal of Adams so memorable was his ability to balance the fierce determination of a founding father with emotional nuance and authenticity. His performance received wide acclaim and remains one of the most definitive portrayals of John Adams in cinema.

Transition to Television: A Voice That Shaped Generations

While Daniels had already built an impressive resume in film and theater, television brought him widespread recognition. One of his earliest notable roles was on the medical drama St. Elsewhere (1982–1988), where he played Dr. Mark Craig, a brilliant but arrogant heart surgeon. The role earned him two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (1985 and 1986).

However, it was his role as George Feeny in Boy Meets World (1993–2000) that endeared him to millions of viewers. As the wise teacher, mentor, and moral compass for the show’s young characters, Daniels played Feeny with grace, humor, and profound insight. His character evolved from a strict educator to a beloved grandfather figure, and his memorable line, “Believe in yourselves. Dream. Try. Do good,” has been quoted by fans and educators alike for decades.

Interestingly, Daniels initially turned down the role, unsure about being in a youth-oriented sitcom. However, once he saw the show's vision and moral direction, he committed—and the result was legendary.

Voice of KITT: The Car with a Soul

Another iconic facet of William Daniels’ career was his voice work as KITT—the artificially intelligent, crime-fighting car in the popular 1980s series Knight Rider (1982–1986), starring David Hasselhoff. Daniels’ smooth, refined voice gave KITT a distinctive personality—logical, composed, and witty—which elevated the car from a gimmick to a beloved character.

Interestingly, Daniels was uncredited for the role throughout the show's original run, keeping an air of mystery about the car’s voice. Fans only found out much later that it was indeed Daniels who brought KITT to life. His vocal performance became one of the most iconic elements of the series, helping cement his legacy in voice acting as well.

A Lifelong Partnership: Marriage and Family

William Daniels has been married to actress Bonnie Bartlett since 1951, making theirs one of the longest-running marriages in Hollywood. The couple met while studying at Northwestern University and have worked together on several occasions, most notably on St. Elsewhere, where Bartlett played his on-screen wife.

Together, they have navigated the ups and downs of Hollywood with dignity and commitment. Daniels and Bartlett have two sons and have openly discussed their journey, including struggles and triumphs, in interviews and in their memoirs.

Their enduring relationship is often cited as a rare success story in the entertainment industry, and they were honored jointly with Emmy Awards for their performances on St. Elsewhere—a historic achievement.

Later Years and Continued Impact

Even in his later years, Daniels remained active in the entertainment industry. He reprised his role as Mr. Feeny in the Boy Meets World spin-off Girl Meets World (2014–2017), delighting fans with nostalgic appearances. Though semi-retired, he continued to lend his voice and wisdom to educational causes, reflecting the mentorship qualities he portrayed on screen.

Daniels also published a memoir titled There I Go Again: How I Came to Be Mr. Feeny, John Adams, Dr. Craig, KITT, and Many Others, offering readers a heartfelt look at his career, family, and experiences in Hollywood. The book was well-received, celebrated for its humor, honesty, and inspirational insights.

Advocacy and Union Work

Beyond acting, William Daniels was a passionate advocate for actors’ rights. He served as president of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) from 1999 to 2001. During his tenure, he focused on improving working conditions, enhancing healthcare benefits, and protecting the rights of performers in the digital age.

His leadership helped shape policy and strengthen the guild’s role in advocating for fair treatment in the entertainment industry. Daniels was respected not just for his artistry but for his integrity and service to fellow actors.

Awards and Legacy

William Daniels’ accolades include multiple Emmy Awards, a People’s Choice Award, and numerous theater honors. Yet his greatest achievement may be the love and respect of fans across generations.

Whether you grew up watching him in Knight Rider, St. Elsewhere, or Boy Meets World, or you discovered his Broadway performances in later years, Daniels represents a rare consistency in quality and dedication. His voice, presence, and wisdom have become symbols of stability, intelligence, and compassion in American storytelling.

Conclusion

William Daniels is more than an actor—he is a cultural icon whose work has helped shape modern television, film, and theater. His characters have taught, inspired, and comforted audiences across decades, and his off-screen life reflects the same dignity and purpose.

From a child actor in Brooklyn to one of Hollywood’s most beloved mentors, Daniels' journey is a testament to resilience, talent, and unwavering commitment to craft. As long as stories are told and values are passed down through entertainment, the legacy of William Daniels will endure.