William Sanderson Biography: Height, Parents, Children, Age, Wife, Net Worth, Movies, TV Shows, Career

William Sanderson is a retired American actor renowned for his distinctive roles in film and television, most notably as J.F. Sebastian in Blade Runner and Sheriff Bud Dearborne in True Blood.

With a career spanning over four decades, he brought authenticity to character-driven performances in series like Newhart and films such as Lone Wolf McQuade, earning a loyal following for his gritty, memorable portrayals.

His unique voice and presence made him a standout in both mainstream and cult classic projects.

Profile

• Full Name: William Sanderson
• Stage Name: William Sanderson
• Born: 10, January 1944
• Age: 81 years old
• Birthplace: Memphis, Tennessee, U.S.
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Retired Actor
• Height: 1.73m
• Parents: Mr. Sanderson, Mrs. Sanderson
• Siblings: Unknown
• Spouse: Sharon Wix
• Children: Andrew Sanderson
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $1 million

Early Life and Education

William Sanderson was born on January 10, 1944, in Memphis, Tennessee, to a mother who worked as an elementary school teacher and a father who was a landscape designer.

Details about his siblings are not publicly available.

He attended Southern Methodist University before earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1968 and a Juris Doctor degree in 1971 from Memphis State University, now the University of Memphis.

Though he completed law school, he chose not to take the bar exam, opting instead to pursue acting.

His ethnicity is Caucasian, and his religious beliefs remain private.

Career

William Sanderson began his acting career in the 1970s, landing small roles in New York theater and television, including appearances on Starsky & Hutch.

His breakthrough came with Blade Runner (1982), where he played the sympathetic J.F. Sebastian, a role that became iconic in sci-fi cinema.

His performance, marked by quiet vulnerability, showcased his ability to elevate supporting characters, earning him recognition in Hollywood.

Sanderson gained further prominence as Larry on Newhart (1982–1990), delivering deadpan humor alongside his on-screen brothers, Darryl and Darryl, in one of television’s most beloved sitcoms.

He continued to work steadily in films like Lone Wolf McQuade (1983) and Fletch (1985), as well as TV shows such as Deadwood (2004–2006), where he portrayed E.B. Farnum.

His role as Sheriff Bud Dearborne in True Blood (2008–2012) further solidified his reputation for bringing depth to rugged, authentic characters.

After a prolific career, Sanderson retired from acting, with his final roles including appearances in American Gothic (2016).

His performances, often blending grit with warmth, left a lasting impact on both television and film.

His contributions to iconic projects like Blade Runner and Newhart continue to resonate with audiences, cementing his legacy as a versatile character actor.

Social Media

• William Sanderson does not have a verified social media account.

Personal Life

William Sanderson married Sharon Wix, and they have a son, Andrew Sanderson.

He maintains a private life, with little public information about his personal relationships beyond his marriage.

Based in Pennsylvania, Sanderson enjoys a quiet retirement, reflecting on his Southern roots and time in the military during the Vietnam War era.

Filmography

• Starsky & Hutch (1977)
• Blade Runner (1982)
• Lone Wolf McQuade (1983)
• Fletch (1985)
• Newhart (1982–1990)
• Last Man Standing (1996)
• Deadwood (2004–2006)
• True Blood (2008–2012)
• American Gothic (2016)

Net Worth

William Sanderson has an estimated net worth of $1 million.

His wealth primarily comes from his extensive acting career, including long-running roles in Newhart and True Blood, as well as residuals from films like Blade Runner.