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Bill Hudson: A Legacy in Art and Advocacy

Bill Hudson (Photographer)

Biography

Bill Hudson (August 20, 1932 – June 24, 2010) was an influential American photojournalist best known for his work with the Associated Press during the Civil Rights Movement. Born in Detroit, he began his photography career in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and later worked for various newspapers before joining the Associated Press in 1962. His powerful images, particularly those depicting police brutality against peaceful protesters, played a significant role in garnering public support for civil rights initiatives. One of his most famous photographs captured an African-American man being attacked by a police dog during a protest in Birmingham, which received widespread media attention and contributed to shifting public opinion on civil rights issues.

Bill Hudson refers to two notable individuals: a photojournalist and a musician/actor.

Career Highlights

  • Worked for the Associated Press during critical civil rights events, including the Birmingham campaign and Selma to Montgomery marches.

  • His photography was pivotal in influencing public perception of the civil rights struggle.

  • Joined United Press International in 1974 after leaving the Associated Press.

Death

Hudson passed away from congestive heart failure on June 24, 2010, at the age of 77, leaving behind his wife Patricia.

Bill Hudson (Musician/Actor)

William Louis Hudson Jr. (born October 17, 1949) is an American musician and actor known primarily as a member of The Hudson Brothers, a pop music group he formed with his brothers Brett and Mark in 1965. He also had a brief acting career with roles in films such as Hysterical (1982) and TV shows like Doogie Howser, M.D.

Personal Life

Bill Hudson was previously married to actress Goldie Hawn from 1976 to 1982, with whom he has two children: actors Kate Hudson and Oliver Hudson. He later married Cindy Williams, with whom he had two more children. His relationships with his children have been strained over the years; both Kate and Oliver have publicly discussed their complicated feelings towards him due to his absence during their upbringing. Despite this estrangement, there are signs of reconciliation as they have expressed hopes of rebuilding their relationship.

Bill Hudson Net Worth

Bill Hudson’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million. This figure reflects his career as a musician and actor, particularly known for his role in the band The Hudson Brothers and various television appearances.

Career Highlights

  • Co-founded The Hudson Brothers, which had several hits in the 1970s.

  • Appeared in various television shows and movies throughout the late ’70s and ’80s.

  • Has five children total from different relationships.

Both Bill Hudsons have made significant contributions to their respective fields—one through impactful journalism during a transformative era in American history and the other through music and entertainment.