William Greaves

Director

Birthday October 8, 1926

Birth Sign Libra

Birthplace Harlem, NY

DEATH DATE Aug 25, 2014 (87)

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About

American documentary filmmaker and director who is best known for his works including Ali, the Fighter, From These Roots and Nationtime. He worked as a producer, writer, director and cinematographer of over seventy-five films.

Before Fame

He attended Stuyvesant High School. He attended City College of New York but dropped out to pursue a career in theater. He worked in the American Negro Theater. He also wrote songs before breaking into film.

Trivia

In 2001, he released Ralph Bunche: An American Odyssey, which was narrated by Sidney Poitier. He is considered one of the most prolific documentary makers from his era. 

Family Life

He is the son of Garfield Greaves and Emily Muir. He was one of seven children.

Associated With

In 1948, he joined the Actors Studio and studied alongside Marlon BrandoJulie HarrisAnthony Quinn and Shelley Winters.