William Christian (actor) facts for kids

William Leonard Christian (born September 30, 1955) is an American actor. He has appeared in many TV shows and plays. You might know him as Police Chief Derek Frye from the TV show All My Children. He played this role from 1990 to 2007. He also played TR Coates on Days of Our Lives.

Early Life and Education

William Christian was born in Washington, D.C.. He first discovered acting in elementary school. This was at St. Francis De Sales. He then went to Archbishop Carroll High School. There, he joined the theater program.

Christian later studied at the Catholic University of America. He learned a lot about theatre and earned his first degree. He then continued his studies at the American University. He earned a master's degree in drama there.

Acting Career Highlights

In the early 1980s, Christian moved to New York. He joined a group called the Actors Information Project. He performed in many stage plays. He also appeared in TV commercials for companies like American Express and Burger King.

In 1989, Christian was in a play called The Member of the Wedding. He acted alongside the famous actress Esther Rolle. He also made guest appearances on many popular TV shows. These include The Cosby Show, ER, Malcolm in the Middle, and Desperate Housewives.

In 1990, he got a role as Dr. Marshall Redd on Another World. Soon after, he began playing Derek Frye on All My Children. This was a very important role for him. In 1991, he was nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award. This award was for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.

In 1995, Christian spoke at a Youth Forum Against Violence. He gave a speech to young people in Springfield, Massachusetts. In 1996, he appeared in another play. It was called The Boys in the Band.

Christian first appeared on Days of Our Lives in 2018. He had a small, uncredited role. In 2022, he returned to the show as TR Coates. He got this role after talking with the show's co-executive producer, Albert Alarr. William Christian lives in Boston, Massachusetts. He says his family encouraged him to take on the role.

Personal Life

William Christian married Gail Samuel in 2002. In 2021, Gail Samuel became the first female president and CEO of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. The couple welcomed their first child in 2005. They have two sons named Samuel and Orlando. Christian lives in Boston with his wife and sons.

Filmography

Film Roles

Television Roles