The hidden illness that took this Hollywood legend’s life
Born in 1934, this talented actor and television director built a career that spanned more than three decades and left a lasting mark on American television. He became widely recognized for portraying Dr. David Banner in the late 1970s and early 1980s, a role that blended emotional depth with quiet intensity. He passed away in 1993, far earlier than anyone expected, but his work continues to resonate with audiences decades later.
For more than 30 years, Bill Bixby was admired for his talent both in front of the camera and behind it. His calm presence and natural charm were a big part of his appeal. Fellow actor Ray Walston once remarked that Bixby’s ability to make people like him instantly was key to his popularity, a quality viewers seemed to sense the moment he appeared on screen.
Born Wilfred Bailey Everett Bixby III on January 22, 1934, in San Francisco, he grew up as an only child and discovered his love for performance early in life. While attending Lowell High School, he became involved in speech and debate, which helped shape his confidence and communication skills. He later studied at City College of San Francisco and the University of California, Berkeley, before deciding to leave school to pursue acting full time. To support himself, he worked in modeling and commercials until steady television roles began to appear.
Bill Bixby as Tony Blake from the television program The Magician / NBC / Wikipedia Commons
His major breakthrough came in 1963 with the sitcom My Favorite Martian, where he played reporter Tim O’Hara opposite Ray Walston’s mischievous alien. The show ran for three seasons and quickly made him a familiar face in American households. He followed this success by starring as widowed father Tom Corbett in The Courtship of Eddie’s Father, a role that earned him three Emmy nominations and further established his reputation as a warm, relatable leading man.
Bixby continued to explore diverse roles, including stage illusionist Anthony Blake in The Magician, which later developed a devoted following despite its short run. For many fans, however, his most enduring role came with The Incredible Hulk, where he portrayed Dr. David Bruce Banner from 1978 to 1982. His performance brought humanity and vulnerability to the character, grounding the series emotionally. He later reprised the role in three made-for-television films, directing two of them himself.
Bixby as Tim O’Hara in My Favorite Martian, when an accident turns Uncle Martin back into a baby / CBS / Wikipedia commons
In addition to his television work, Bixby appeared in films such as Lonely Are the Brave and guest-starred on popular series including Fantasy Island and Murder, She Wrote. His versatility allowed him to move easily between drama, comedy, and action, earning respect throughout the industry.
Away from the spotlight, his life was marked by profound personal loss. After divorcing his first wife, actress Brenda Benet, in 1980, tragedy struck when their six-year-old son Christopher died suddenly from a rare illness in 1981. The following year, Benet passed away. Despite these devastating events, Bixby continued working and gradually shifted more of his focus toward directing in the 1980s, contributing to shows such as Goodnight, Beantown, Sledge Hammer!, and later becoming a regular director on Blossom.
One of the last public photos of Bill Bixby in 1991 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)
Known in the 1970s as one of Hollywood’s most eligible bachelors, Bixby valued his privacy and avoided the social scene whenever possible. He often spoke about enjoying quiet weekends, nature, and meaningful companionship rather than public attention. Later in life, he found lasting love and married Laura Michaels in 1990, though the marriage ended a year later, the same year he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Bixby spoke openly about his illness, hoping to encourage awareness and early treatment. In 1993, he married Judith Kliban, and in the final weeks of his life, she cared for him at their home as his health declined. He passed away peacefully on November 21, 1993, at the age of 59.
His legacy endures through his memorable performances and his work as a director. From My Favorite Martian to The Courtship of Eddie’s Father and The Incredible Hulk, Bill Bixby left behind a body of work defined by warmth, sincerity, and emotional depth. Beyond acting, he enjoyed cooking, gardening, music, and quiet hobbies that reflected his thoughtful nature.
Today, his work remains accessible to new generations through streaming platforms and digital releases. While his life included hardship, his career stands as a testament to resilience, talent, and the lasting impact of an artist who brought heart and humanity to every role he played.
