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Entertainment • Actor

William Daniels

William Daniels is an American actor known for stage, film, television, and voice roles.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

William Daniels is an American actor known for stage, film, television, and voice roles. He is especially recognized for playing Dr. Mark Craig on *St. Elsewhere*, the voice of KITT on *Knight Rider*, and Mr. Feeny on *Boy Meets World*. Daniels also served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1999 to 2001.

Early life and career beginnings

William Daniels was born in Brooklyn, New York, on March 31, 1927. He began performing at a young age, part of the Daniels family singing act, and made an early television debut in the 1940s.

Television career

Daniels is best known for major television roles in *St. Elsewhere*, *Knight Rider*, and *Boy Meets World*. His performances in these series made him one of the most recognizable character actors on American television.

Film and stage work

His film credits include *The Graduate* and *1776*, and he also worked extensively in theatre. He built a long career across Broadway, television, and film.

Awards and leadership

Daniels won two Primetime Emmy Awards for his role on *St. Elsewhere*. He later served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1999 to 2001.

Key facts

  • William Daniels was born in Brooklyn, New York, on March 31, 1927.
  • He is best known for playing Dr. Mark Craig on *St. Elsewhere*, voicing KITT on *Knight Rider*, and portraying Mr. Feeny on *Boy Meets World*.
  • He won two Primetime Emmy Awards for *St. Elsewhere*.
  • His film roles include *The Graduate* and *1776*.
  • He served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1999 to 2001.
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Canadian context

William Daniels is familiar to Canadian audiences through widely broadcast American television series such as *Knight Rider* and *Boy Meets World*, which were also popular in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Who is William Daniels?
William Daniels is an American actor known for stage, film, television, and voice work, especially *St. Elsewhere*, *Knight Rider*, and *Boy Meets World*.
What is William Daniels best known for?
He is best known for playing Dr. Mark Craig, voicing KITT, and portraying Mr. Feeny.
When was William Daniels born?
He was born on March 31, 1927.
What awards has William Daniels won?
He won two Primetime Emmy Awards for his role on *St. Elsewhere*.
Did William Daniels work outside acting?
Yes. He served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1999 to 2001.
What films is William Daniels known for?
His notable film roles include *The Graduate* and *1776*.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Daniels
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, major roles, and Emmy recognition.
  2. SAG-AFTRA — https://www.sagaftra.org/william-daniels
    Supports: Service as Screen Actors Guild president and Emmy wins for *St. Elsewhere*.
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0200122/
    Supports: Early performance background and television debut information.
  4. People — https://www.people.com/william-daniels-life-in-photos-11937508
    Supports: Birthplace, family background, and career overview.