William Gillette was an American actor, playwright, and stage producer best known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes. Born in Hartford, Connecticut in 1853, Gillette's iconic portrayal of the famous detective shaped the image of Holmes that we know today. Gillette also wrote and starred in his own successful play, "Sherlock Holmes," which he performed over 1300 times. His innovative use of stage technology and realistic acting style revolutionized the theater world. Learn more about this legendary actor and playwright by exploring his life and legacy.