William Gillette was an American actor, playwright, and stage manager, best known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes. Born on July 24, 1853, in Hartford, Connecticut, he became a prominent figure in American theater during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Gillette's adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle's character brought a unique flair to the role, making it iconic. In addition to acting, Gillette wrote several plays and was involved in the development of stagecraft. He also designed the famous Sherlock Holmes hat and pipe, which became synonymous with the character. Gillette's contributions to theater and his lasting impact on the portrayal of Holmes are still celebrated today.