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William Petersen Filmography

ActorBORN 1953EVANSTON30 FILMS IN DB

WilliamPetersen

Known for Acting · Counterfeit World: Making 'To Live and Die in L.A.', Detachment, The Staircase

30
FILMS IN DB
$363
TOTAL VALUE
21
PRICED
$17
AVG VALUE
DVD
BEST FORMAT
💎
RAREST RELEASE
Manhunter
~$97 · BLU-RAY · 1986
📈
MOST VALUABLE
Three Short Plays by Tracy Letts
$0 · Est. market value

BIOGRAPHY

William Petersen’s commanding presence has made him a fixture in collector’s libraries, particularly for his intense, often morally ambiguous roles that push cinematic boundaries. His breakthrough as Richard Chance in William Friedkin’s electrifying 1985 thriller *To Live and Die in L.A.* remains a gritty, cult-favorite essential, consistently sought after on various home video formats for its daring stunts and raw realism. Collectors prize early DVD and Blu-ray editions, appreciating how they preserve the film's visceral impact. Petersen further cemented his place in film history as Will Graham in Michael Mann’s visionary *Manhunter* (1986), the screen’s first Hannibal Lecter adaptation. This stylish, atmospheric thriller is a benchmark for crime cinema, inspiring numerous retrospective releases and deluxe editions that appeal to cinephiles and physical media enthusiasts alike. While *Gunshy* (1998) might be a lesser-known gem in his filmography, it exemplifies Petersen’s range, offering collectors a more nuanced performance to round out their comprehensive collections of this acclaimed actor.

HIGHEST VALUE RELEASES

FILMS BY DECADE

FULL FILMOGRAPHY

30 films
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is William Petersen best known for in his acting career?

William Petersen is best known for his roles in films like To Live and Die in L.A. (1985) and Fear (1996), where he often plays intense, complex characters.

During which decade was William Petersen most active in his film career?

William Petersen was most active during the 1990s, appearing in numerous films across various genres.

What range of genres has William Petersen worked in throughout his career?

William Petersen's filmography includes drama, thriller, crime, comedy, TV movies, and documentaries, showing his versatility as an actor.

Has William Petersen's work been released on multiple physical media formats?

Yes, William Petersen's films have been released on various physical media formats including blu-ray, DVD, laserdisc, VHS, and others.

Can you name some notable films where William Petersen had a top-billed role?

Some notable films with William Petersen in top-billed roles include Fear (1996), To Live and Die in L.A. (1985), The Skulls (2000), and Detachment (2011).