**William Keighley (1889-1984)** was an American director, a key figure in the Warner Bros. studio system between the 1930s and 1940s.

Specializing in action films, crime dramas, adventure, and brisk comedies, his style was characterized by a sustained pace and direct storytelling, typical of the studio's fast and professional production.

His most significant works include the gangster dramas "G-Men" (1935) and "Bullets or Ballots" (1936), often starring James Cagney or Edward G. Robinson, the adventure film "The Prince and the Pauper" (1937), and the thriller "Each Dawn I Die" (1939). He is also known for having commenced direction on "The Adventures of Robin Hood" (1938) before being replaced by Michael Curtiz.

Keighley was a reliable and competent director, essential to Warner's commercial success during its golden age.