William Alfred Defoe was the father of American actor Willem Dafoe famously known for his role as Norman Osborn in the film Spider-Man. William, born on January 21, 1917, was married to Muriel Isabel, a nurse, and they had eight children together. One of the eight children followed in his footsteps, Donald Dafoe, a researcher and transplant surgeon.
Education and Professional Career
William Alfred Dafoe studied up to the college level; after high school, he joined the University of Wisconsin-Madison, after which he enrolled for further studies at Harvard Medical School. William met his wife Muriel while studying in medical school; they started a relationship and married before moving to Minnesota.
William joined the Mayo clinic to advance his knowledge of surgery. After completing his education, he started working as a surgeon in the Appleton area. He loved his work and always checked on his patients to see if they were doing well
Personal Life
Despite his busy schedule as a surgeon, William Alfred Dafoe also created time for his children and family in general. However, he spent most of his time with his wife, who was working as a nurse at his office. William, along with his wife, retired in their later years to spend time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. William’s son Willem mentioned that his older sisters raised him because his parents were mostly at work.
His Son
William Alfred Dafoe’s son started his acting career in 1979, appearing in a supporting role in the film Heaven’s Gate. Three years later, he landed a lead role in the drama film The Loveless before making a brief appearance in The Hunger. For his performance in the film, Platoon, Willem gained wider exposure and recognition. Writer Sheila Benson praised him for his performance.
William’s son was nominated for an Academy Award in 1986 for his role in Platoon. Over the years, Willem Dafoe has appeared in several films and television shows, including Poor Things, Inside Man, Mr. Beans Holiday, The Clearing, The Reckoning, and The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou
William Dafoe’s son was ranked by New York Times as number 18 on the list of 25 greatest actors in the 21st century. Willem has received several accolades in his acting career, including awards and nominations for Academy, Golden Globe awards, and a Volci Cup.
In his love life, William Alfred Dafoe’s son was in a romantic relationship with Elizabeth LeCompte for over twenty years, and they have a son together. In 2010, Willem married actress Giada Colagrande after dating for five years; they have been together since; however, they have a child.
Her Son’s Net Worth
Willem Dafoe has made a lot of wealth by appearing in many films and television shows. He has a net worth of 40 million U.S. dollars as of 2023. William’s son’s wealth can also e attributed to the many awards and nominations he has received.
Death
William Alfred Dafoe was ill for some time before his death; he died on November 21, 2014, aged 97, in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, California. His body was cremated.
