Star of the 1985 cult classic horror-comedy film "Fright Night," playing a teenager who discovers his neighbor is a vampire. He's also known for his roles in various TV shows and films.
William Ragsdale is an American actor renowned for his iconic portrayal of Charley Brewster in the cult horror-comedy film Fright Night (1985) and its sequel Fright Night Part 2 (1988). This role cemented his status as a horror movie icon, and he has since navigated a diverse career in film and television.
Born on January 19, 1961, in El Dorado, Arkansas, Ragsdale attended Hendrix College, where he honed his acting skills alongside fellow student Natalie Canerday. This collegiate background would later serve as a springboard for his professional endeavors.
Ragsdale's breakout performance in Fright Night enabled him to transition seamlessly to the stage, where he appeared in Neil Simon's plays Brighton Beach Memoirs and Biloxi Blues. He then landed leading roles in television series, including the titular character in Hermans Head (1991-1994) and a recurring role in Judging Amy.
Throughout his career, Ragsdale has demonstrated his versatility by taking on an array of characters in film and television. Notable credits include the romance comedy Mannequin Two: On the Move (1991), the television series Grosse Pointe, and a four-episode stint on Less than Perfect. He also appeared on Ellen as the boyfriend of Ellen Morgan before her character's pivotal coming-out moment.
In recent years, Ragsdale has maintained a steady presence in the entertainment industry. He played Gary Hawkins in 12 episodes of the acclaimed television series Justified (2010-2012) and took on the role of Chris Smith in the Left Behind remake (2014). In 2017, he starred in the Off-Broadway production of Man from Nebraska at the Second Stage Theatre.
In a nod to his iconic Fright Night role, Ragsdale appeared as a vampire-hunting priest in the horror comedy Renfield (2023). This testament to his enduring appeal solidifies his position as a beloved figure in the horror genre.
Through his extensive body of work, William Ragsdale has left an indelible mark on popular culture, ensuring his status as a horror icon and a talented actor capable of traversing diverse genres and mediums.
79 Years Old
The iconic actor behind the terrifying Freddy Krueger, bringing horror to life in the Nightmare on Elm Street franchise. He's synonymous with the eerie, burned, and razor-gloved villain.
87 Years Old
A master of horror, this filmmaker crafted iconic franchises like A Nightmare on Elm Street and Scream, redefining the genre with clever twists and witty humor.
63 Years Old
A charismatic actor who has captivated audiences with his versatility and eccentricity, starring in iconic films like Pirates of the Caribbean and Edward Scissorhands.
55 Years Old
Academy Award-nominated actress and producer, starring in iconic films like Beetlejuice, Edward Scissorhands, and Girl, Interrupted, known for her quirky, offbeat characters.
68 Years Old
American actress, comedian, and director known for her iconic role as Marcy Rhoades/D'Arcy on the popular sitcom "Married... with Children" and her work in the LGBTQ+ community.
62 Years Old
An American actress and producer, best known for her iconic role as Nancy Thompson in the A Nightmare on Elm Street franchise, exploring the horrors of dreams and reality.
85 Years Old
A Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and former US Poet Laureate, known for his lyrical and accessible poetry that explores the human condition, nature, and politics.
Born in 1924
Veteran actress of stage and screen, known for her distinctive voice and authoritative presence in a wide range of roles, from drama to comedy.
