Who Is William Petersen? Age, Biography and Wiki
William Petersen, born on February 21, 1953, is an acclaimed American actor renowned for his role as Gil Grissom in the hit TV series CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. With a career spanning several decades, Petersen has made significant contributions to both film and television. As of 2025, he is 72 years old and continues to draw attention for his compelling performances and charismatic screen presence.
| Occupation | Football Players |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 21, 1953 |
| Age | 72 Years |
| Birth Place | Evanston, Illinois, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
William Petersen's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
William Petersen stands at an impressive height of 6 feet (183 cm) and maintains a weight of approximately 180 lbs (82 kg). His athletic build has served him well in various demanding roles throughout his career. As he ages, Petersen has also embraced a healthy lifestyle, which remains evident in his well-maintained physical appearance.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
William Petersen has been married to former actress Joann Pflug since 2003. Together, they have created a peaceful life away from the limelight and share a strong bond. Prior to his marriage, Petersen had several relationships but has kept details of his dating life largely private. As of 2025, he remains dedicated to his wife and enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, focusing on personal happiness rather than celebrity status.
Of Danish and German descent, he was raised in the Roman Catholic faith of his mother. He has two brothers, Arthur Jr. and Robert, and three sisters, Anne, Mary Kay, and Elizabeth.
Net Worth and Salary
William Petersen's successful career has resulted in a substantial financial portfolio. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is approximately $40 million. His earnings come not only from acting roles but also from various production ventures and investments. Petersen's work on CSI alone has contributed significantly to his wealth, making him one of the well-compensated actors of his generation.
Career, Business and Investments
Petersen's career began in the 1970s, and he gained significant recognition with his portrayal of Gil Grissom from 2000 to 2015 on CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. Following the series, Petersen continued to explore diverse roles, including appearances in theater, film, and television. His production company has also seen success, allowing him to invest in projects that align with his interests and values. In addition to acting, he has engaged in several philanthropic endeavors, reinforcing his commitment to giving back to the community.
From 2000 to 2009, he played Dr. Gil Grissom in the CBS crime drama CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. Petersen took a break from CSI in 2006 to appear in a five-week run of the Trinity Repertory Company production of Dublin Carol by Conor McPherson, in Providence, Rhode Island.
Petersen renewed his contract with CBS to appear on CSI for the 2008–09 season, reportedly for $600,000 per episode. On July 15, 2008, the Associated Press reported that Petersen was leaving the show as a regular following Season 9's tenth episode in order to pursue more stage-acting opportunities, but that he might return for guest spots.
He remained an executive producer of the show. He reprised his role of Gil Grissom in the eleventh-season episode "The Two Mrs. Grissoms" (aired February 3, 2011). He came back in 2015 as a guest in the series finale, "Immortality."
Social Network
William Petersen maintains a low-profile presence on social media but is known to use platforms like Instagram and Twitter to connect with fans occasionally. His posts often reflect his personal interests, including family life and artistic projects. Though not very active online, he appreciates the support from his fans and occasionally shares insights into his creative endeavors.
Petersen made his film debut with a bit part in Thief (1981), directed by Michael Mann. The actor received his first break when he played a Secret Service agent gone rogue to avenge his mentor in William Friedkin's 1985 action film To Live and Die in L.A. In 1986, he played FBI agent Will Graham in the first Hannibal Lecter film, Manhunter.
Because his role was so emotionally exhausting, he did everything he could to rid himself of Graham after finishing principal photography. He shaved off his beard, cut his hair, and bleached it blond.
He also claims to have done this because, while rehearsing for a play in Chicago, his dialogue was always coming out like Graham's; he dyed his hair so he could look in the mirror and see a different person.
Education
Petersen holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri, which he attended in the early 1970s. His education laid the groundwork for his future career in acting, allowing him to hone his craft and develop a solid foundation over the years.
