Dr. Bill Cortner is a fictional character from the 1959 science fiction horror film, The Brain That Wouldn't Die. He is portrayed as a brilliant but unethical surgeon who conducts experiments to preserve human heads after decapitation. His obsession with scientific advancement leads him to make morally questionable decisions. In the film, Dr. Cortner's experiments take a dark turn when he attempts to keep his fiancée's head alive after a tragic accident. The story explores themes of ambition, ethics in science, and the consequences of playing God, ultimately showcasing the dangers of unchecked scientific exploration.