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About

William Gary Busey is an American actor known for his eccentric personality and intense portrayals of various characters. He gained critical acclaim for his role as Buddy Holly in 'The Buddy Holly Story,' earning an Academy Award nomination. Busey has also starred in numerous action and thriller films, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Off-screen, he is known for his unconventional behavior and has appeared in reality television shows.

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Career Timeline

1974C$0.05M

Early TV Roles

Busey begins his career with various television appearances and small film roles.

1978B$1M+$0.95M

'Buddy Holly Story' Success

His portrayal of Buddy Holly earns him an Academy Award nomination and widespread recognition.

1988B$3M+$2M

Action Movie Roles

Busey stars in several action films, establishing himself as a recognizable actor in Hollywood.

1995C$2M-$1M

Motorcycle Accident

A serious motorcycle accident and subsequent struggles impact his career and personal life.

2005C$0.5M-$1.5M

Reality TV Appearances

Busey appears in reality television shows, maintaining some level of visibility.

2015D$0M-$0.5M

Occasional Film Roles

Busey continues to take on occasional film roles, but his career momentum has declined.

2026D$0M

Fading Relevance

Busey's presence in mainstream media has diminished, and he is mostly remembered for his past successes and eccentric behavior.

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Last updated: February 20, 2026