In a heartbreaking incident, Richard Treat Williams, a highly esteemed American actor renowned for his captivating performances in movies such as Hair and Prince of the City, as well as popular TV shows like Blue Bloods and Chicago Fire, has tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident in Vermont.
A Honda SUV, making a left turn into a parking lot in the town of Dorset, collided with the motorcycle of the 71-year-old actor, according to a statement that the Vermont State Police released.
Williams tried his best to avoid the collision, but the impact threw him off his motorcycle, and he sustained critical injuries. He was immediately airlifted to Albany Medical Center in Albany, New York, where, sadly, he was pronounced dead, as stated in the official police statement. It is worth noting that Williams was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.
The driver of the SUV suffered minor injuries and did not require hospitalization. Having signaled the turn and with no immediate detainment, the driver is cooperating with the ongoing crash investigation, as confirmed by the police.
Born Richard Treat Williams, the actor resided in Manchester Center, located in southern Vermont, according to authorities. Barry McPherson, Williams’ agent, expressed deep sorrow over the actor’s untimely passing in an interview with People magazine. McPherson described Williams as an exceptionally talented and kind-hearted individual, stating,
I’m just devastated. He was the nicest guy. He was so talented.” McPherson further added, “He was an actor’s actor. Filmmakers loved him. He’s been the heart of Hollywood since the late 1970s.”
Williams, originally from Connecticut, made his cinematic debut in 1975, portraying a police officer in the film Deadly Hero. He went on to establish a prolific career, appearing in over 120 TV and film roles. including notable works as The Eagle Has Landed, Prince of the City, and Once Upon a Time in America. His outstanding portrayal of hippie leader George Berger in the 1979 movie adaptation of the popular musical Hair earned him a nomination for a Golden Globe Award.
While Williams made numerous television appearances he gained significant recognition for his leading role as Dr. Andrew Brown in the series Everwood, which aired from 2002 to 2006. Portraying a widowed brain surgeon who moves with his two children to the Colorado mountain town of the same name, Williams garnered immense praise for his performance. Additionally, he had a recurring role as Lenny Ross in the acclaimed TV show Blue Bloods.
Williams also showcased his talent on stage, with notable appearances in Broadway shows such as Grease and Pirates of Penzance.
His wife, Pam Van Sant, and their two children survive Richard Treat Williams. Who left behind a legacy of exceptional acting and a profound impact on the entertainment industry. His untimely departure has left fans and the industry in mourning, forever cherishing his contributions to film and television.
