The Health Condition Behind the Passing of This Hollywood Legend

Bill Bixby, an actor, director, and television personality whose career spanned over three decades, remains one of the most beloved figures in American television history.

Born Wilfred Bailey Everett Bixby III on January 22, 1934, in San Francisco, California, Bixby was raised with a blend of intellectual curiosity, artistic inclination, and a quiet charm that would later define both his on-screen and off-screen persona. While many remember him as Dr. David Banner in The Incredible Hulk (1978–1982)—a role forever linked with the unforgettable line, “You wouldn’t like me when I’m angry”—Bixby’s career and personal journey offer a depth that goes far beyond one iconic character. His warmth, versatility, and commitment to his craft endeared him to colleagues, critics, and audiences alike.

Early Life and Education

Bixby was an only child, raised in a nurturing environment that encouraged curiosity and learning. From a young age, he displayed remarkable eloquence and confidence, often participating in public speaking competitions and school debates.

At Lowell High School, Bixby earned a reputation for his articulate and expressive delivery—qualities that would later define his performances on screen.

Teachers and peers alike described him as a naturally charismatic and observant young man, someone who could blend intelligence with empathy—traits that would become central to both his personal life and professional career.

After high school, Bixby enrolled at City College of San Francisco and later attended UC Berkeley. Although he showed academic promise, the pull of the performing arts proved irresistible.

He eventually left school to pursue acting full-time, a decision that marked the start of his lifelong commitment to television and film.

In the early stages of his career, Bixby supported himself through modeling, commercials, and small television roles, gradually building the experience and confidence that would allow him to take on larger projects.

Friends and mentors often spoke of his natural charm and his ability to connect with people. Actor Ray Walston, his co-star on My Favorite Martian, later reflected, “I believe that was the reason people liked him—instantly and completely.”

That combination of approachability, professionalism, and natural warmth would come to define both his acting style and the relationships he cultivated within Hollywood.

Breakthrough with My Favorite Martian

Bixby’s breakthrough came in 1963 with the television series My Favorite Martian, where he portrayed Tim O’Hara, a curious and empathetic reporter who discovers and befriends an alien, played by Ray Walston.

The show, which ran for three seasons, captured the imagination of viewers across the United States and solidified Bixby as a household name.

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Bixby’s ability to balance comedic timing with genuine emotion allowed him to stand out in My Favorite Martian, a show that could have easily been overshadowed by its fantastical premise.

Following the success of My Favorite Martian, Bixby expanded his television repertoire. In The Courtship of Eddie’s Father, he portrayed Tom Corbett, a widowed father navigating life while raising his young son, Eddie.

This role earned Bixby three Emmy nominations and showcased his talent for delivering heartfelt performances that resonated with both children and adult audiences.

Later, he starred in The Magician as Anthony Blake, a stage illusionist whose adventures blended mystery and drama. Although the series was short-lived, it garnered a devoted fan base and showcased Bixby’s knack for playing layered, complex characters.

The Iconic Role: Dr. David Banner

For many, Bixby’s defining role remains Dr. David Bruce Banner in The Incredible Hulk, which aired from 1978 to 1982. As Banner, a brilliant scientist grappling with the catastrophic effects of a gamma-ray experiment that transforms him into the Hulk during moments of extreme stress or anger, Bixby brought depth and complexity to the character.

His portrayal of Banner highlighted the character’s intellect, empathy, and emotional vulnerability, providing the human core of a fantastical story.

In addition to the series, Bixby reprised his role in three made-for-TV movies, including The Trial of the Incredible Hulk and The Death of the Incredible Hulk, two of which he also directed.

These projects allowed Bixby to explore Dr. Banner’s character in greater depth, while also showcasing his skill behind the camera as a director.

Beyond The Hulk, Bixby appeared in films such as Lonely Are the Brave and made guest appearances on popular shows like Fantasy Island and Murder, She Wrote, demonstrating his versatility as an actor capable of tackling both dramatic and light-hearted roles.

Personal Tragedy and Resilience

While Bixby’s professional life flourished, his personal life was fraught with profound tragedy. He married actress Brenda Benet, but their marriage ended in divorce in 1980. The following year, a devastating blow struck when their six-year-old son, Christopher, tragically passed away from a rare throat infection.

As if that loss weren’t enough, Bixby faced an even greater tragedy in 1982 when Brenda Benet died by suicide. Despite these overwhelming hardships, Bixby pressed on with his career, continuing to work with resilience and professionalism. Those who knew him noted that he somehow channeled the deep sorrow and grief he was enduring into his acting and, later, his work as a director.

Throughout the 1970s, Bixby was frequently labeled as one of Hollywood’s most eligible bachelors, but he made a deliberate choice to distance himself from the celebrity social scene. In interviews, he often expressed his preference for privacy, once saying:

“I’m a very private person. I rarely go to cocktail parties because I can’t stand the idle chatter of drunks. My weekends are spent at Malibu. I take a lady and go to the beach and enjoy the beauty of the beach and the lady.”

This mindset underscored Bixby’s grounded personality and his desire to live authentically, even in the midst of fame. He wasn’t interested in the typical Hollywood lifestyle and instead sought solace and meaning in simpler, more personal moments.

Later Personal Life and Marriages

After decades of professional success, Bill Bixby eventually sought companionship and love in his personal life. In 1990, he married Laura Michaels, but the marriage ended in divorce just a year later.

Soon after, Bixby faced a major health crisis—he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1991. Rather than retreating from the spotlight, he chose to confront his illness with honesty and openness. Using his own experience as a platform, he became an advocate for early detection, encouraging men to undergo regular screenings and take their health seriously. His candidness in the face of such a personal challenge only further reflected the grounded, empathetic qualities that had long endeared him to fans.

Bixby once shared a quiet, poignant wish in the face of his illness:

“My prayer was that I would die in my sleep.”

This simple remark spoke volumes about his acceptance of mortality and his desire for peace and serenity, even as he continued to pursue meaningful projects and remain active in his work.

In October 1993, Bixby married Judith Kliban, who would become his primary caregiver during the final months of his life. Their home near Century City, California, became a sanctuary where Bixby could find rest, reflection, and solace in the simple pleasures that had always brought him comfort. Despite his deteriorating health, Bixby maintained his trademark sense of humor and a deep appreciation for life’s small, often overlooked joys—from sharing quiet meals with loved ones to moments of peaceful reflection in his garden.

Final Months and Passing

In November 1993, Bixby’s health took a dramatic downturn. While directing an episode of Blossom, his condition had worsened to the point that he had to work from a sofa instead of the usual busy set. This decision reflected not just his professionalism, but also his unwavering dedication to the craft of storytelling.

On November 15, Kliban remained at his side, offering care, comfort, and companionship during those final days. On November 21, 1993, at the age of 59, Bill Bixby passed away after slipping into a coma. His death was a profound loss to both the entertainment industry and his fans, leaving a deep void in the lives of those who knew and admired him. Kliban later expressed:

“I prayed for some extra time, but what we got was really intense and quite fabulous.”