Discovering: William Holden

The programme examines the life and career of William Holden, the actor who rose to become one of Hollywood’s leading box‑office attractions from the 1950s through the 1970s. It traces his development and the success that made him a prominent figure in mid‑century cinema.

The broadcast is a programme episode that centres on the life and professional journey of William Holden. It presents viewers with a concise portrait of the actor, framing his story within the broader context of Hollywood’s mid‑century film industry. The episode’s core content follows Holden’s development from his early days in the business to the point where he emerged as a major box‑office attraction. It traces his ascent through the 1950s, noting how his performances helped secure his reputation as a reliable draw for audiences, and continues the narrative through the subsequent two decades. In addition, the programme highlights the period from the 1950s right up to the 1970s, underscoring the length of Holden’s commercial appeal. By focusing on these years, the episode demonstrates how his star power persisted across changing cinematic trends, cementing his status as one of the era’s most successful film personalities.