William Powell was an accomplished American television writer and associate producer, known for his work during the golden age of television. William Powell passed away on March 13, 1968, in Greensboro California at the age of 43. He was the only child of legendary Hollywood actor William Powell and actress Eileen Wilson. His parents divorced in 1930 during his early childhood, but William Jr. would go on to carve out his own path in the entertainment industry, separate from the towering shadow of his father’s fame.
A gifted student, Powell graduated magna cum laude from Princeton University, earning his degree in English—a testament to his intellectual abilities and passion for storytelling. On Saturday, December 22, 1956, at the age of 31, Powell married Patricia Parsons, a former child actress born in 1931. The intimate wedding ceremony took place at the Palm Springs home of his father, located on Vereda Norte. Following their nuptials, the couple spent their honeymoon in Las Vegas, Nevada. Unfortunately, the marriage was short-lived, and the couple officially divorced less than a year later, on September 19, 1957.
Who was William Powell
Professionally, William Powell made his mark as a talented television writer. His writing credits include episodes of some of the most iconic TV shows of the era, such as Bonanza, Death Valley Days, 77 Sunset Strip, and Rawhide. His skill and insight into storytelling led him to take on additional roles behind the scenes. He worked as a story editor and production coordinator, and eventually rose to the role of associate producer at major studios including Warner Bros. and Universal Studios. His career also extended into network television, where he held an executive position at NBC.
Despite his professional accomplishments, Powell faced significant personal challenges. In 1968, he was forced to step away from his writing career due to a combination of health issues, including hepatitis, kidney problems, and ongoing struggles with depression. These difficulties ultimately took a toll on his well-being and his career trajectory.
Funeral Details for William Powell
William Powell passed away not long after leaving the industry, and he was laid to rest at Desert Memorial Park in Cathedral City, located in Riverside County, California. He is buried alongside his father, William Powell Sr., and his father’s last wife, actress Diana Lewis. Though perhaps less known than his famous father, William Powell Jr.’s contributions to American television and his quiet dedication to his craft remain a part of entertainment history.