William Dozier (February 13, 1908 – April 23, 1991) was an American film and television producer and occasional actor. He is widely associated with the 1960s televised adaptation of Batman, serving as the show's creator and providing its distinctive opening narration for the series billed as Batman.
Early life
Dozier was born on February 13, 1908, in Omaha, Nebraska. Details of his early education and first jobs are less widely documented than his later work in entertainment, but he established a career primarily behind the camera as a producer for motion pictures and television.
Career
Throughout his professional life Dozier worked in both movie and television production and also appeared on screen on occasion. His name is most often linked to the 1960s Batman television series, which is remembered for its bright visual style and tongue‑in‑cheek approach to the superhero genre. Dozier narrated the program and was instrumental in shaping its tone and presentation.
Personal life
Dozier was married three times. His first marriage, to Katharine Foley, was brief in 1929 and ended in divorce within months. He later married actress Joan Fontaine in 1946; that union ended in divorce in 1951. In 1953 he married actress Ann Rutherford, and the couple remained together until Dozier's death.
Death
William Dozier died on April 23, 1991, in Santa Monica, California. The death was attributed to a stroke. He was 83 years old.