William L. Baker, a renowned R&B radio broadcaster, embarked on an acting journey out of sheer curiosity, enrolling in an acting class created by the acclaimed actor John Cassavetes, known for his iconic role in Rosemary's Baby (1968). Baker's fascination with the craft led him to study the Stanislofski Method, an approach that focuses on the actor's emotional and psychological connection to the character. His dedication and talent earned him a spot among the top three students out of 12, deemed capable of pursuing a career in acting.
After a brief stint with Motown as a jazz musician, Baker attended The Black Actors Workshop in Los Angeles, where he honed his craft under the guidance of esteemed directors. One such director, Bill Duke, recognized Baker's potential and cast him in a pivotal role, that of a Russian Nobleman, in a play that showcased his remarkable range. Baker's captivating performance not only impressed the director but also an attendee, who was so moved that he immediately cast him as "The King" in an African children's play.
The play, which played to sold-out audiences in Inglewood, California, for three months, solidified Baker's reputation as a talented actor. His portrayal of the character, which reminded the director of kings in her home of Abijan, Africa, landed him the breakthrough role of "Jondular," the African Mystic, in the horror film classic Witchcraft III: The Kiss of Death (1991). This role marked the beginning of a long and illustrious career, punctuated by numerous stage and film appearances.
Baker's impressive repertoire includes riveting performances in films such as the tenacious Captain Waverly in Dangerous Waters (1994) and the courageous Colonel Newhouse in the cable television series "Jericho" (TV) (2006),which was viewed by over 8 million people. He has consistently demonstrated his ability to bring characters to life, earning him a reputation as an actor who can convey the truth of a character with ease.
Throughout his career, Baker has sought out challenging roles that push him to new heights and engage audiences. His dedication to his craft has taken him to six universities and colleges, where he earned a degree in Litigation. Prior to his acting career, Baker served in the US Marines and worked as a radio broadcaster, before an ad in a newspaper sparked his curiosity about acting.
Baker's journey began at a young age, with his first stage appearance as "The New Year" in an elementary school production. He never considered acting again until an ad in a newspaper during his broadcasting days piqued his interest, leading him to take the leap and pursue his passion for acting.
