Billy Burke

A sturdy lead cut from the classic leading man mold of the 1950s, Billy Burke was an American actor who graduated from indie features and television to substantial roles in Hollywood features. A drama student in his native Seattle, he earned his big break in the slapstick comedy "Mafia!" (1998), but hewed to more dramatic fare in subsequent efforts. A steady stream of supporting roles and guest shots led to recurring appearances on "24" (Fox, 2001-10) and other top series, which significantly increased his profile. Burke eventually returned to features with choice turns in major productions like "Ladder 49" (2004), "Fracture" (2007) and, most famously, as Bella Swan's ever-exasperated father in the vampire "Twilight" franchise that included five films altogether. In addition to stealing scenes from Robert Pattinson and onscreen daughter Kristen Stewart in the tween screen sensation, Burke branched out with starring roles in such projects as "Drive Angry" (2011) and landed back on the small screen, multi-tasking on two shows at the same time: "Revolution" (NBC, 2012-14) and the hit "Rizzoli & Isles" (TNT, 2010-16). A personable actor who projected confidence and sensitivity with each of his performances, Burke was among the more dependable players in film and television going into the next millennium.