Billy Zane

The Movie Actor who made an appearance in the 'Titanic' (1997).

Movie Actor

February 24, 1966

Pisces

59

Chicago, Illinois, United States

Billy Zane is an American actor and producer. He is best known for his role as the villainous Cal Hockley in the blockbuster movie Titanic. He has also appeared in other movies such as The Phantom, Demon Knight, and Dead Calm. Zane has also worked on various television shows including Twin Peaks and Charmed. His achievements include various award nominations including a Screen Actors Guild Award for his work in the TV movie The Mists of Avalon.

According to sources, the name Billy Zane was inspired by his Greek father’s Americanized pronunciation of his given name “Ioannis” (pronounced yo-AH-nis). In an interview, Zane once joked that the name Billy Zane sounds like it belongs to a “stripper or a superhero.” Zane began his acting career in the late 1980s with small roles in movies and television shows before landing his breakthrough role in the 1990 film, The Phantom.

One lesser-known fact about Billy Zane is that he is a talented artist and has exhibited his work in various galleries around the world. Zane’s artwork includes painting, as well as sculpture and he has collaborated with several well-known artists throughout his career. In 2013, Zane had an exhibition in Greece called “Billy Zane: Seize the Day Bed” which featured his unique sculptural pieces. Zane continues to pursue his passion for art in addition to his acting and producing work.