Before Marvel... There Was Van Williams

Who was Van Williams? Most people remember Bruce Lee as the breakout star of The Green Hornet, but few realize that Van Williams, who played the Green Hornet himself, was once considered bigger than Batman. In this video, we dive into the untold story of Van Williams — a Hollywood action star who walked away from fame and chose a life of purpose over celebrity.
From being discovered in Hawaii to starring alongside Bruce Lee in one of television’s most iconic duos, Van Williams made his mark. But what happened after the show ended? Why did he leave Hollywood at the peak of his fame? We uncover rare facts about his background as a real-life deputy sheriff, scuba diver, and businessman — and we reveal his estimated net worth and reasons for turning his back on the spotlight.
If you're into old-school action stars, hidden Hollywood stories, or just pure nostalgia, this video is for you. Be sure to like, comment, and follow TV9090 for more deep dives into forgotten legends, classic shows, and the real lives behind the screen.
👇 All sources and credits below 👇
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🔗 Sources Used in Script:
• IMDb – Van Williams
• Van Williams Obituary – Hollywood Reporter
• Celebrity Net Worth – Van Williams
• The Green Hornet Overview – TV Tropes
• YouTube – Green Hornet Crossover with Batman (1967)