Cress Williams, born on July 26, 1970, in Heidelberg, Germany, comes from an African-American family. He spent his formative years in various parts of the world due to his father's military service before settling in the United States.
Williams pursued his education, studying at Fullerton College before furthering his studies at the prestigious University of California-Los Angeles. It was during his time at UCLA that he discovered his passion for acting and decided to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.
Williams made his television debut in the early 1990s, landing guest roles on popular shows like Beverly Hills, 90210 and Living Single. His talent and charisma quickly caught the attention of casting directors, leading to recurring roles on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and The West Wing.
Williams' big break came when he was cast as series regular on the critically acclaimed drama series Prison Break. His portrayal of the character of Scofield, a complex and morally ambiguous inmate, showcased his versatility as an actor and garnered him a dedicated fan base.
Following his success on Prison Break, Williams continued to impress audiences with his performances on shows like Friday Night Lights, Close to Home, and Black Lightning. His ability to bring depth and emotion to each character he portrays has solidified his reputation as a talented and respected actor in the industry.
Off-screen, Williams has had his share of ups and downs in his personal life. He was previously married to actress Simbi Khali from 2000 to 2011 before the couple decided to part ways. In 2013, Williams found love again and tied the knot with his current wife, Kristen Torrianni.
Williams' dedication to his craft and his commitment to authenticity in his performances have made him a beloved figure in the entertainment world. Whether playing a heroic vigilante or a small-town mayor, he continues to captivate audiences with his talent and charisma.