Treat Williams' 10 Best Movies And TV Shows

The best Treat Williams movies and TV shows have showcased the remarkable versatility and depth of the late actor. Born in 1951, in Stamford, Connecticut, Treat Williams enoyed on a prolific career spanning over five decades prior to his death in 2023, and he left an indelible mark on both stage and screen. Williams’ journey began on Broadway, notably portraying Danny Zuko in the original run of Grease in 1972. His transition to film brought him widespread recognition, with performances that garnered multiple award nominations, including three Golden Globe nods, two Primetime Emmy nominations, and an Independent Spirit Award nomination.

Throughout his career, Treat Williams demonstrated an exceptional range, seamlessly moving between genres and mediums. He delivered powerful performances in critically acclaimed movies and endeared himself to TV audiences with memorable roles in various series. His dedication to his craft and his ability to embody diverse characters have solidified his legacy as a dynamic and respected figure in the entertainment industry. While known most recently for shows like Blue Bloods, the best Treat Williams movies and TV shows appear at all stages of his long and prestigious career.

Treat Williams, Everwood & Deep Rising Actor, Dies At 71

Golden Globe-nominated actor Treat Williams, the star of Prince of the City and the TV show Everwood, has sadly passed away at the age of 71.

10

The Substitute 2: School’s Out (1998)

Treat Williams Plays Karl Thomasson

The Substitute 2: School’s Out

Release Date: August 1, 1998
Runtime: 89 minutes
Director: Steven Pearl
Writers: Rocco Simonelli
Producers: Morrie Eisenman, Robert Salerno, Devorah Cutler

Treat Williams
Karl Thomasson
Michael Michele
Kara Lavelle

The Substitute 2: School’s Out is an action-packed thriller with a moral undertone, and Williams’s portrayal of Karl Thomasson is a standout performance in his career. Treat Williams’ Karl is a tough ex-soldier who takes on the role of a substitute teacher at an inner-city high school to track down the gang members who murdered his brother. A man of few words, Thomasson relies more on his physicality and intense presence than verbal communication. Williams brings a grounded yet commanding energy to the role, balancing Thomasson’s hard-nosed, military background with his growing empathy for the troubled students he’s trying to protect.

Appearing in director Steven Pearl’s movie marked a significant moment in Williams’s career, as it showcased his ability to lead in an action film, a genre that wasn’t traditionally his focus. His portrayal of Karl was praised for its depth, as Williams managed to convey both the character’s battle-hardened exterior and his hidden vulnerabilities. The Substitute 2: School’s Out wasn’t the box office success of the 1996 original, but it helped further solidify Williams as a versatile actor capable of taking on a wide range of roles.

9

Deep Rising (1998)

Treat Williams Plays John Finnegan

Deep Rising

Release Date: February 2, 1998
Runtime: 106 Minutes
Director: Stephen Sommers
Writers: Stephen Sommers

In the 1998 cult-classic sci-fi horror Deep Rising, Treat Williams takes on the role of John Finnegan, a no-nonsense mercenary who becomes an unlikely hero. The plot of the underrated creature feature Deep Rising, which was directed Stephen Sommers, sees Finnegan and his crew hired for a mysterious mission. However, they soon find themselves trapped on a luxury cruise liner infested with monstrous sea creatures. Williams delivers a charismatic and rugged performance, blending action and humor in a way that makes Finnegan a compelling protagonist.

Though not a major box-office hit, Deep Rising has gained a strong cult following, and Williams’ performance remains one of the movie’s highlights. His natural charisma and action-hero presence make this one of the best Treat Williams movies, proving his ability to lead a high-stakes thriller with charm and confidence.

8

Feud: Capote Vs. The Swans (2017)

Treat Williams Plays Dick Cavett

Feud

7/10

Release Date: 2017 – 2023
Writers: Ryan Murphy, Jaffe Cohen, Michael Zam, Jon Robin Baitz

Ryan Murphy’s Feud: Capote vs. The Swans saw Treat Williams portray the charismatic and ruthless socialite Dick Cavett, a man with deep ties to the elite New York society that Truman Capote famously infiltrated. Feud focuses on the drama between Capote and the wealthy women who once considered him their friend. Williams’s smooth and understated portrayal of Cavett brings an undercurrent of sharpness that fits the intricacte exploration of power dynamics and celebrity well. Williams proved himself perfect for darkly comedic tone of Feud, adding depth to the portrayal of upper-class New York society.

Joining the Feud cast allowed Treat Williams to take on a character based on a historical figure and appear amidst a star-studded ensemble that included the likes of Jessica Lange, Susan Sarandon, and Stanley Tucci. The series was critically acclaimed, and Williams’s performance contributed to the overall success of the show. His role in Feud is a prime example of his ability to embrace complex characters in historical settings, adding another feather to his cap as an actor who can navigate both modern and period dramas with equal flair.

7

1941 (1979)

Treat Williams Plays Lieutenant Ron Pevney

1941

Release Date: December 14, 1979
Runtime: 118 Minutes
Writers: Robert Zemeckis, Bob Gale, John Milius

In 1941, Treat Williams plays the role of Lieutenant Ron Pevney, a sharp and resourceful officer stationed in Los Angeles during the chaos of World War II. Directed by Steven Spielberg, 1941 is a large-scale comedy that follows a series of misadventures involving both American soldiers and civilians, set against the backdrop of a Japanese attack on California. Williams shines in a role that blends comedy and action, showcasing his ability to handle broad humor while still maintaining an endearing sincerity. His quick wit and strong presence make him a memorable part of this ensemble film.

Despite the film’s mixed reception, 1941 was a significant moment in Williams’s career, as it allowed him to work with some of the biggest names in Hollywood, including John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, and Ned Beatty. While the film didn’t become the commercial hit Spielberg had hoped for, Williams’s performance stood out for its energy and comedic timing. This role helped solidify Williams’s range as an actor, demonstrating that he could excel in both drama and comedy. 1941 remains a quirky gem in Williams’s career, offering a glimpse into his versatility and skill in handling complex ensemble roles.

6

The Late Shift (1996)

Treat Williams Plays Jay Leno

The Late Shift

Release Date: February 24, 1996
Runtime: 95 minutes
Director: Betty Thomas
Writers: Bill Carter

John Michael Higgins
David Letterman

Treat Williams delivered an excellent portrayal of talent agent Michael Ovitz in HBO’s critically acclaimed TV movie The Late Shift. The movie, which chronicles the dramatic behind-the-scenes battle for The Tonight Show between Jay Leno and David Letterman, saw Williams expertly capture Ovitz’s intelligence and ruthless business acumen. His presence adds credibility and gravitas to the film’s exploration of the cutthroat television industry.

Williams’ performance in The Late Shift earned him a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or Special. The role further solidified his reputation as an actor who could bring real-life figures to life with nuance and conviction. The 1996 TV movie still stands as one of the best Treat Williams TV shows due to his exceptional performance and the film’s engaging subject matter.

5

Smooth Talk (1985)

Treat Williams Plays Arnold Friend

Smooth Talk

Release Date: November 17, 1985
Runtime: 91 minutes
Director: Joyce Chopra
Writers: Tom Cole
Producers: Lindsay Law

Treat Williams
Arnold Friend
Mary Kay Place
Katherine Wyatt

In the independent drama Smooth Talk, Treat Williams delivers a chilling and enigmatic performance as Arnold Friend, a mysterious stranger who fixates on a teenage girl named Connie (played by Laura Dern). Based on Joyce Carol Oates’ short story Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?, Smooth Talk explores themes of innocence, manipulation, and danger. Williams’ portrayal of Arnold is equal parts charming and unsettling, creating an antagonist whose intentions remain eerily ambiguous.

As for why it’s among the best Treat Williams movies and TV shows, his performance in Smooth Talk was highly praised, earning him an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Male Lead. The movie itself became a cult classic, and Williams’ chilling performance as Arnold Friend remains one of the most haunting roles of his career. In particular, Smooth Talks illustrates his ability to play deeply complex and morally ambiguous characters with a captivating presence.

4

Hair (1979)

Treat Williams Plays George Berger

Hair

Release Date: March 15, 1979
Runtime: 121 minutes
Director: Miloš Forman
Writers: Gerome Ragni
Producers: Lester Persky

John Savage
Claude Hooper Bukowski
Treat Williams
George Berger
Beverly D’Angelo
Sheila Franklin
Annie Golden
Jeannie Ryan

Treat Williams takes on the role of George Berger, the charismatic and free-spirited leader of a group of bohemians in 1960s New York City, in Miloš Forman’s 1979 adaptation of the Broadway musical Hair. Berger’s magnetic personality and rebellious spirit draw a young Army draftee, Claude Hooper Bukowski (John Savage), into their unconventional world, leading to a poignant exploration of friendship, love, and societal norms. Williams’ portrayal is dynamic and energetic, capturing the essence of the counterculture movement and infusing Berger with both humor and heart.

Treat Williams’ performance in Hair was a breakthrough moment in his career, demonstrating his ability to lead a major motion picture. His portrayal earned him a Golden Globe nomination for New Star of the Year, cementing his status as an up-and-coming talent in Hollywood. The film remains one of the best Treat Williams movies, showcasing his natural charisma and stage presence, which translated seamlessly onto the big screen. His performance made Berger one of his most enduring roles, endearing him to audiences and critics alike.

3

Prince Of The City (1981)

Treat Williams Plays Daniel Ciello

Prince of the City

Release Date: August 19, 1981
Runtime: 167 minutes
Writers: Jay Presson Allen
Producers: Burtt Harris

Treat Williams
Daniel Ciello
Richard Foronjy
Joe Marinaro

Sidney Lumet’s crime drama Prince of the City features Treat Williams in one of his most gripping and complex roles as Daniel Ciello, a New York City detective caught in a web of corruption and moral dilemmas. Based on real-life events, the film follows Ciello as he agrees to cooperate with federal investigators, exposing corruption within the police force while grappling with the personal and professional fallout of his decisions. Williams delivers an intense and deeply nuanced performance, portraying Ciello’s internal conflict with a raw authenticity that keeps viewers riveted.

Williams’ portrayal of Ciello earned him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama, solidifying his reputation as a serious dramatic actor. The role required immense emotional depth, as Ciello struggles with guilt, betrayal, and the consequences of his actions. Prince of the City remains one of the best Treat Williams movies, illustrating his ability to carry a film with a performance that is both commanding and deeply human.

2

A Streetcar Named Desire (1984)

Treat Williams Plays Stanley Kowalski

A Streetcar Named Desire

Release Date: March 4, 1984
Runtime: 119 minutes
Director: John Erman
Writers: Oscar Saul
Producers: Craig Baumgarten, Keith Barish

Cast

Ann-Margret
Blanche DuBois
Treat Williams
Stanley Kowalski
Beverly D’Angelo
Stella DuBois Kowalski
Randy Quaid
Harold “Mitch” Mitchell

The 1984 television adaptation of Tennessee Williams’ classic play A Streetcar Named Desire is one of Treat Williams most well-known appearances, as he steps into the formidable role of Stanley Kowalski (originally made famous by Marlon Brando). Stanley is a brutish and passionate working-class man whose volatile relationship with his sister-in-law Blanche DuBois (played by Ann-Margret) creates an emotionally charged and tragic narrative. Williams brings a fresh intensity to the role, capturing Stanley’s primal energy and underlying vulnerability while maintaining the character’s signature forcefulness.

Treat Williams’ performance in A Streetcar Named Desire was widely praised, earning him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television. His portrayal stood out for its emotional depth and complexity, proving his ability to reinterpret a classic role with his own unique touch. To this day, A Streetcar Named Desire continues to a key part of Williams’ legacy, reinforcing his versatility and strength as a dramatic actor in both movies and TV shows.

1

Everwood (2002–2006)

Treat Williams Plays Dr. Andy Brown

Everwood

Treat Williams
Andrew Brown
Gregory Smith
Ephram Brown

For many fans, the best Treat Williams movie or TV show is the beloved television drama series Everwood. Williams plays Dr. Andrew “Andy” Brown, a world-renowned neurosurgeon who moves to the small town of Everwood, Colorado, following the sudden death of his wife. Seeking to rebuild his fractured relationship with his children, particularly his teenage son Ephram (Gregory Smith), Andy transitions from a prestigious career to running a modest community clinic. Williams’ portrayal of Andy is heartfelt and layered, capturing the character’s struggles with grief, fatherhood, and personal redemption.

His portrayal of Andy in Everwood resonated deeply with audiences, and proved career-defining. It landed Treat Williams two Screen Actors Guild Award nominations for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series. His role as Andy Brown remains one of his most recognized and beloved performances, cementing the series as one of the best Treat Williams TV shows. His ability to balance the character’s brilliance with his emotional vulnerabilities made Andy Brown a compelling and relatable figure, further showcasing Williams’ depth as an actor.