Biography
William Xifaras was born and raised in Massachusetts, primarily in New Bedford and later Boston. He is the son of Beatrice Keshian from Medford, MA, and Michael Xifaras from New Bedford, MA.
He began his film acting career after his release from the Massachusetts state prison system in 2005, having served five years for intimidation. Bill dedicated many years to studying through various classes including improv, on-camera acting, character development, and scene study. At the same time, he volunteered to speak with at-risk youth about the importance of education and setting goals.
His principal roles include appearances in 20th Century Fox's The Heat, Sony Pictures' The Equalizer, Universal's Ted 2, Netflix's Wheelman, Hulu's Castle Rock series, Caviar's Sound of Metal, Artina Films' By the Gun, Paramount Pictures' Defending Jacob, AMC's Kevin Can F**k Himself, Showtime's Dexter, Thug, and Align's Love, Weddings, and Other Disasters. He has worked with directors such as Morten Tyldum, Dennis Dugan, Ben Affleck, Paul Feig, Antoine Fuqua, Seth MacFarlane, Jeremy Rush, Kevin Hooks, Darius Marder, Hans Petter Moland, James Mottern, Sanford Bookstaver, and Richard Duque-Henao.
He has also acted alongside performers including Liam Neeson, Chris Evans, Michelle Dockery, Jaeden Martell, Cherry Jones, Annie Murphy, Jon Hamm, Sandra Bullock, Harvey Keitel, Denzel Washington, Betty Gabriel, Seth MacFarlane, Frank Grillo, Scott Glenn, Julia Jones, and Riz Ahmed.
Upon request, Bill donates his time speaking at public schools, after-school programs, and social initiatives focused on youth in crisis. He remains committed to causes such as child welfare, education, homelessness, and supporting children in foster care.
