William Hickey, born on September 19, 1927, in New York, was of Irish descent. He grew up with an older sister named Dorothy, and from a young age, he showed a talent for acting. Hickey began his acting career as a child stage actor, eventually making his Broadway debut in the 1951 production of Saint Joan.
Throughout his career, Hickey found success both on stage and on screen. Some of his most notable theater credits include performances in Arsenic and Old Lace, Thieves, and The Body Beautiful. He was a versatile actor, known for his ability to portray a wide range of characters with depth and nuance.
Despite his success on stage, William Hickey is perhaps best known for his role as Don Corrado Prizzi in the 1985 film Prizzi's Honor, for which he received an Oscar nomination. His performance opposite Jack Nicholson was praised for its intensity and complexity, solidifying Hickey's reputation as a talented actor in the film industry.
Although Hickey's last film appearance was in 1997's MouseHunt, he left a lasting impact on both stage and screen. He was known for his distinctive voice and memorable performances, including his portrayal of Dr. Finkelstein in Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas.
William Hickey passed away in 1997, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and a lasting impact on the world of entertainment. His talent and dedication to his craft continue to inspire actors and audiences alike, ensuring that his contributions to the industry will never be forgotten.