**William Daniels** (born March 31, 1927) is an American actor with a long and distinguished career, known for his authoritative presence and ability to portray intellectual characters.

In film, he gained widespread recognition for his memorable portrayal of John Adams in the movie musical *1776* (1972), a role he had already successfully originated on Broadway. Among his other notable film appearances are the classic *The Graduate* (1967), where he played Mr. Braddock, and the cult movie *Two-Lane Blacktop* (1971), in the role of the "GTO Driver." He also appeared in *A Thousand Clowns* (1965).

Daniels is often associated with sharp, sometimes stern but intrinsically wise characters, embodying educated authority and profound intelligence.