Cress Williams

Biography

Cress Williams, born on July 26, 1970, in Heidelberg, West Germany, to American parents, is a prominent American actor whose career spans over three decades. He honed his acting skills at Fullerton College before obtaining a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from the University of California, Los Angeles. Williams kicked off his performing career in college productions, with a notable role in Shakespeare's "Othello" in 1990, which laid the groundwork for his transition into television and film.

Williams has made a significant mark in the television landscape, most notably as Terrence "Scooter" Williams on the beloved sitcom "Living Single," and Inspector Antwon Babcock on the crime series "Nash Bridges." He showcased his versatility further as Detective Ed Williams in "Close to Home," but it was his portrayal of Mayor Lavon Hayes in The CW's "Hart of Dixie" and the lead role of Jefferson Pierce/Black Lightning in the superhero series "Black Lightning" (2018-2021) that solidified his status as a leading man in the industry.

In addition to his television work, he has guest-starred in acclaimed series such as "Prison Break," where he played the assassin Wyatt Mathewson, as well as "Friday Night Lights," "Grey's Anatomy," and "Law & Order: SVU." Williams has also lent his voice to the character John Henry Irons in various animated films within the DC universe. Outside of his career, he is a devoted father of four and has been married twice. His enduring presence in both dramatic and action-packed roles has earned him recognition as a talented and reliable actor in Hollywood.