The nickname The Hammer originated in the training camp of the San Francisco 49ers, where Fred Williamson’s aggressive defensive style prompted his coach to request he cease striking players. Born in 1938 in Gary, Indiana, he transitioned from a career as a collegiate and professional football player into a prolific role as an actor, director, and producer within the American film industry.
Gridiron Career
Williamson played at Northwestern University before signing with the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted free agent. Following a season with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1960, he moved to the American Football League, spending four seasons with the Oakland Raiders and three with the Kansas City Chiefs. He earned three consecutive All-Star honors between 1961 and 1963. Known for using martial arts techniques on the field, he recorded 36 interceptions over 104 games. His professional career concluded after he signed with the Montreal Alouettes in 1968.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Transition to Cinema
After retiring from football, Williamson moved into television and film, securing an early role in a Star Trek episode titled The Cloud Minders. By 1972, he starred as the lead in the Western The Legend of Nigger Charley. His subsequent credits include Black Caesar, Hell Up in Harlem, Hammer, That Man Bolt, and Bucktown. In 1973, he posed for Playgirl magazine. He briefly served as a color commentator for ABC’s Monday Night Football in 1974.
Directing and Production
Williamson established Po' Boy Productions while based in Rome, Italy, during the 1970s. His directorial debut as a producer occurred with Boss Nigger in 1975, followed by Mean Johnny Barrows. He has directed more than 20 feature films throughout his career. His later work has primarily focused on the direct-to-video market, where he remains active. He has frequently collaborated with actors including Jim Brown, Bo Svenson, and D'Urville Martin.
Personal Details
Williamson was married to Ginette Lavonda from 1960 to 1967 and has been married to Linda Williamson since 1988. He maintains a residence in Palm Springs, California, which he has occupied since 1997. He is the father of at least three children. In 2020, he publicly denied an allegation regarding an incident with a costume designer.
Fast facts
- Born: 1938, Gary, Indiana
- College: Northwestern University
- Football Nickname: The Hammer
- Film Production Company: Po' Boy Productions
- Residence: Palm Springs, California
- Spouses: Ginette Lavonda, Linda Williamson
Questions readers ask
Did Fred Williamson play in Super Bowl I?
Yes, he played for the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl I, where he sustained an injury and the team was defeated 35-10.
What subjects did Williamson study in college?
He earned a degree in architecture while attending Northwestern University on a track and field scholarship.
