William Atherton is an American actor known for his roles in several iconic films from the 1980s and 1990s. He was born on July 30, 1947, in Orange, Connecticut. Atherton often portrayed antagonistic or morally ambiguous characters, earning a reputation for playing memorable "villain" roles.

Some of his most notable performances include:

1. "Ghostbusters" (1984) - Atherton played Walter Peck, a skeptical and antagonistic EPA agent who clashes with the Ghostbusters team. His role is remembered for the iconic line, "Is this true?" followed by the retort, "Yes, it's true. This man has no dick."
2. "Die Hard" (1988) and "Die Hard 2" (1990) - He portrayed Richard Thornburg, an unscrupulous and arrogant television reporter who causes trouble for the protagonists, John and Holly McClane.
3. "Real Genius" (1985) - Atherton played Professor Jerry Hathaway, a manipulative and deceitful scientist exploiting his students for a military project.

Throughout his career, Atherton has also appeared in numerous television shows and films, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He has played a wide range of characters, from historical figures to contemporary roles, and has a strong presence in both film and television. Despite often being cast in antagonistic roles, Atherton's performances have made him a recognizable and respected figure in Hollywood.