At 98, William Daniels — one of Hollywood’s most enduring legends — continues to embrace a life defined by love, resilience, and a remarkable legacy that spans nearly a century in entertainment. Known for his unforgettable roles in The Graduate, Knight Rider, and Boy Meets World, Daniels celebrated his 98th birthday quietly this year, choosing peace, gratitude, and the company of his wife of 73 years, actress Bonnie Bartlett, over red carpets and flashing cameras.
The couple, seen recently enjoying lunch together at Art’s Deli in Studio City, California, may well have Hollywood’s longest-lasting marriage. Married in 1951, their relationship has outlasted much of the entertainment industry itself — a bond built on triumph, tragedy, and a deep mutual respect for one another’s independence and creativity.
For his birthday, Daniels kept it simple. He wore a blue sweater beneath a gray windbreaker, paired with gray pants and white sneakers. His silver hair and knowing smile spoke of a lifetime of hard-earned wisdom. Fans who spotted him couldn’t help but smile as well — even at nearly 100, he exudes the quiet dignity that made his performances so memorable.
Daniels’ voice — rich, warm, and commanding — remains one of the most recognized in film and television. Generations still hear it as KITT, the talking car in Knight Rider, or as the beloved Mr. Feeny from Boy Meets World. His portrayal of Mr. Feeny, in particular, became iconic, shaping how an entire generation perceived mentorship and moral guidance. His career began with his standout role in The Graduate in 1967, where he played the stern Mr. Braddock opposite Dustin Hoffman.
On reflecting upon his milestone birthday, Daniels shared with friends that his wish was simple: “peace and quiet.” His wife Bonnie smiled softly, adding, “He’s earned it.” She also reflected on the rare strength of their Hollywood marriage. “We’ve had good years and hard years, but we’ve always had each other. That’s what matters,” she said.
Though Daniels has slowed down in recent years, he isn’t fully retired. He still does occasional voice work, recently revisiting his role as KITT. “It was nostalgic,” he admitted. Staying active and engaged mentally, he believes, is the secret to longevity. “You have to keep your mind and spirit engaged. That’s what keeps you alive.”
Bonnie Bartlett, an Emmy-winning actress, has often credited her husband’s unwavering discipline as the foundation for their grounded life together in the chaos of Hollywood. “Bill has always been passionate about his craft — not just about acting, but doing it the right way. He never cared for fame, just the work.”
Their journey began in the early 1940s at Northwestern University, where they met as theatre students. Their bond was immediate, but they faced their share of challenges. Daniels served in World War II before pursuing acting seriously on Broadway and later in film and television. The couple married in 1951 and endured their greatest loss together in 1961 — the death of their first child, William Jr., shortly after birth.
Rather than tear them apart, this tragedy only deepened their bond. Years later, they adopted two sons, Michael and Robert, completing their family. “That’s when our lives really started to heal,” Bonnie once said. “We learned what resilience really means.”
Daniels’ career blossomed throughout the years, from his Broadway success to his television stardom. His career wasn’t defined by typecasting but by depth and moral integrity. As president of the Screen Actors Guild, Daniels also fought for better treatment and representation of actors within the industry.
When asked about the secret to his enduring marriage and long life, Daniels’ response was simple: “Patience and humor,” he said. “You have to know when to talk and when to listen. And you have to laugh a lot.”
Bonnie added, “We’ve been through enough to know love isn’t always easy. But it’s worth the work. After 73 years, I can tell you, it’s still an adventure.”
Together, they walk hand in hand, teasing each other like newlyweds. They’ve weathered personal loss, Hollywood fame, and the inevitable passing of time, yet remain committed to one another.
For Daniels, his birthday is more about reflection than age. “I don’t think about numbers,” he said. “I think about the moments — the laughter, the people, the work that mattered. That’s what lasts.”
William Daniels’ journey has been one of quiet strength. Unlike many stars of his time, he never chased headlines or scandal. Instead, his work continues to speak for itself. At 98, his legacy endures, reminding us that fame fades, but true artistry lives on.