William Self papers, 2001-2002

William Self (1921–2010) was a Hollywood actor and producer known for his work in film and television. Born in Dayton, Ohio, he graduated from the University of Chicago in 1943 with a degree in political science before pursuing a career in acting. He appeared in over thirty films, including I Was a Male War Bride, Adam’s Rib, and The Thing, in which he played Corporal Barnes. In 1952, encouraged by Spencer Tracy, Self transitioned into producing, starting with the television series China Smith. He later produced The Schlitz Playhouse of Stars, collaborating with actors like Ronald Reagan and James Dean. By 1957, he was producing The Frank Sinatra Show on ABC before joining CBS as a program executive, where he helped develop The Twilight Zone. In 1958, he moved to 20th Century Fox, where he worked for fifteen years, eventually becoming Vice President.

In 1975, Self partnered with Mike Frankovich to produce theatrical films before returning to CBS in 1977 as Vice President in Charge of Movies and Miniseries. Over the next several years, he oversaw the production of more than 250 films and numerous miniseries. Promoted to President of CBS Theatrical Film Division in 1982, he produced ten feature films, including Eleni and Turtle Diary. Later, he established Self Productions, Inc., and co-founded Sarah Productions with Glenn Close, producing Sarah, Plain & Tall and its sequels. Self was a member of the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and the Directors Guild of America. He also served on the boards of the John Tracy Clinic, the Motion Picture Television Fund, and the Buffalo Bill Historical Center. He was married to Lucille Flynn from 1941 until her passing in 2007, and they had two children. Self passed away in November 2010 following a heart attack.