William Louis Petersen is a renowned American actor and producer, whose extensive career has been marked by iconic roles in both television and film. He is perhaps most famously recognized for his portrayal of Dr. Gilbert "Gil" Grissom on the highly acclaimed CBS series CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, a character he brought to life for a decade.
Prior to his breakthrough in the entertainment industry, Petersen attended Idaho State University on a football scholarship, where he initially pursued acting and subsequently joined the drama department. However, his true passion for the craft led him to leave school and travel to the Basque country, where he immersed himself in the local culture and honed his Shakespearean acting skills.
The experience had a profound impact on Petersen, influencing not only his artistic endeavors but also his personal life and family. He went on to join the prestigious Steppenwolf Theatre Company before landing his first major role in the 1985 action film To Live and Die in L.A.
Petersen's success was swift and substantial, with his subsequent role as Will Graham in the film Manhunter cementing his status as a leading man. Throughout his career, he has appeared in numerous crime dramas and thrillers, providing a rich backdrop for his portrayal of Dr. Grissom in CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry, Petersen was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on February 3, 2009.
