22 Extraordinary Facts About Billy Drago

Billy Drago was born on September 18, 1945, in Hugoton, Kansas.

Born as William Eugene Burrows Jr., Billy Drago was destined for stardom with his unique charisma and acting talent.

His real-life name, Billy Drago, was inspired by his heritage.

Seeking a stage name that reflected his Native American heritage, he chose “Drago” as a nod to his Native American ancestry.

Billy Drago’s acting career spanned over four decades.

From the early 1970s until his passing in 2019, Drago graced both the big and small screens with his captivating performances.

He was known for playing memorable villains.

With his striking looks and intense screen presence, Billy Drago became a master at portraying sinister and captivating antagonists.

Billy Drago’s breakthrough role came in Brian De Palma’s “The Untouchables” (1987).

In this critically acclaimed film, Drago played the ruthless and cunning gangster Frank Nitti, opposite Kevin Costner’s Eliot Ness.

He appeared in numerous popular TV shows.

Billy Drago left his mark on television, making guest appearances on shows like “The X-Files,” “Charmed,” and “Walker, Texas Ranger.”

Billy Drago collaborated with Clint Eastwood in “Pale Rider” (1985).

In this Western film, Drago portrayed a menacing gunslinger named “Dog Kelly,” challenging Eastwood’s character in a thrilling showdown.

He had a recurring role as Barbas, the Demon of Fear, on the TV series “Charmed.”

Billy Drago’s portrayal of the sinister and manipulative demon left a lasting impression on fans of the popular supernatural show.

Billy Drago worked alongside Chuck Norris in “Delta Force 2: The Colombian Connection” (1990).

In this action-packed film, Drago played a ruthless drug lord, providing a formidable adversary for Norris’ character.

He had a passion for martial arts.

Outside of his acting career, Billy Drago trained extensively in martial arts, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Krav Maga.

Billy Drago’s portrayal of the enigmatic and mysterious John Bly in “The Adventures of Brisco County Jr.” (1993-1994) solidified his reputation in the world of television.

His charismatic performance as the main antagonist in this cult-favorite series garnered him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.

He starred in the horror film “The Hills Have Eyes” (1977).

Billy Drago’s chilling performance in this Wes Craven classic showcased his ability to captivate audiences with his intense and unsettling presence.

Billy Drago was talented as both an actor and a musician.

In addition to his acting pursuits, Drago was an accomplished musician and songwriter, showcasing his versatility and artistic range.

He appeared in Michael Jackson’s music video for the hit song “You Rock My World” (2001).

Billy Drago’s appearance in the music video added an extra layer of intrigue to the already star-studded production.

Billy Drago had a recurring role on the TV series “Phantom 2040” (1994-1996).

His distinct voice brought life to the character “Graft,” a power-hungry villain in this animated science fiction series.

He played a memorable role in Rob Zombie’s “The Devil’s Rejects” (2005).

Billy Drago’s portrayal of “Billy Ray Snapper” demonstrated his ability to immerse himself in dark and twisted characters.

Billy Drago’s unique appearance was due to an injury sustained in his youth.

An accident involving a horse-drawn wagon left him with an elongated and sinister scar on his face, adding to his on-screen presence.

He continued to act in independent films throughout his career.

Billy Drago’s love for the craft extended beyond mainstream Hollywood, as he sought out meaningful roles in independent productions.

Billy Drago passed away on June 24, 2019, at the age of 73.

His contributions to the world of acting left a lasting legacy, and he will be remembered as an extraordinary talent.

His performances often left audiences both mesmerized and terrified.

Billy Drago had a unique ability to captivate viewers with his intense and sometimes chilling performances, making him an unforgettable presence on screen.

He was admired by both his fellow actors and fans.

Billy Drago’s talent and dedication to his craft earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and a devoted following of fans.

His impact on the entertainment industry will never be forgotten.

Billy Drago’s contributions to film and television will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come.

Conclusion

Billy Drago was an extraordinary actor who left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. His unique and captivating performances, coupled with his enigmatic personality, made him a beloved figure among fans and colleagues. From his iconic role as the villainous Frank Nitti in “The Untouchables” to his memorable appearances in various television shows, Drago’s talent shone through in every project he undertook.

Aside from his acting prowess, there were many fascinating facts about Billy Drago that added to his allure. Whether it was his passion for martial arts, his spiritual and philosophical beliefs, or his involvement in various charity works, Drago was a multi-dimensional individual who left a lasting impression on those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Although we may have lost Billy Drago, his legacy as a talented actor and remarkable human being will continue to live on. He will always be remembered for his contributions to the entertainment industry and the impact he had on those who had the privilege of experiencing his performances.

FAQs

Q: What were some of Billy Drago’s most famous roles?

A: Billy Drago is best known for his role as Frank Nitti in the film “The Untouchables.” He also gained recognition for his appearances in television shows such as “Charmed,” “The X-Files,” and “Walker, Texas Ranger.”

Q: Did Billy Drago have any other talents besides acting?

A: Yes, aside from acting, Billy Drago was a skilled martial artist. He trained in various disciplines, including karate and kung fu.

Q: Was Billy Drago involved in any charitable work?

A: Yes, Billy Drago was actively involved in charity work throughout his life. He supported organizations that focused on providing aid and support to underprivileged children and individuals in need.

Q: Did Billy Drago have any spiritual or philosophical beliefs?

A: Yes, Billy Drago was known for his interest in spirituality and philosophy. He often explored these subjects and incorporated their principles into his daily life.

Q: What is Billy Drago’s legacy in the entertainment industry?

A: Billy Drago’s legacy in the entertainment industry is one of talent and versatility. He was admired for his ability to portray complex and intriguing characters, leaving a lasting impact on both film and television.