William Jordan is an accomplished American actor whose career spanned several decades in both television and film. Known for his role as Major Jake Gatlin in the late 1970s television series Project U.F.O., Jordan gained recognition for his calm yet authoritative presence and became a familiar face on television. While Project U.F.O. marked a significant chapter in his acting journey, his career also included appearances in a wide range of TV shows and films that demonstrated his versatility as an actor.
Born on October 13, 1937, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Jordan developed an interest in acting early on. With a strong and distinguished screen presence, he became known for portraying characters in military, law enforcement, and authoritative roles. His work ethic and dedication to his craft earned him roles that showcased his ability to balance both drama and action, making him a memorable figure in classic American television.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
William Jordan grew up in the Midwest, and after completing his education, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. Like many aspiring actors, his early years in Hollywood were marked by perseverance and small, often uncredited roles in television and film. These early experiences helped Jordan sharpen his acting skills and gain a foothold in the highly competitive entertainment industry.
He began his career in television in the 1960s, appearing in small guest roles on popular shows such as The Virginian, The F.B.I., and The Bold Ones. These early appearances allowed Jordan to showcase his acting abilities and establish connections in the industry. His distinctive look and deep voice made him a natural fit for characters in law enforcement and military roles, and he began to develop a reputation as a reliable actor who could bring depth and gravitas to his performances.
Project U.F.O.: The Breakthrough Role
William Jordan’s big break came in 1978 when he was cast as Major Jake Gatlin in the NBC television series Project U.F.O. Created by Harold Jack Bloom and produced by Jack Webb, the show was loosely based on the real-life United States Air Force’s investigations into unidentified flying objects (UFOs), which were part of Project Blue Book. Project U.F.O. tapped into the growing public fascination with extraterrestrial life and government investigations into UFO sightings during the 1970s.
In Project U.F.O., Jordan portrayed Major Jake Gatlin, an Air Force officer tasked with investigating UFO sightings across the United States. Alongside his partner, Staff Sergeant Harry Fitz (played by Caskey Swaim), Gatlin traveled to different locations to interview witnesses, analyze evidence, and determine whether the UFO sightings were hoaxes, misidentifications, or potentially real extraterrestrial encounters. The show combined elements of science fiction with procedural drama, offering viewers a mix of mystery and adventure.
Jordan’s portrayal of Major Gatlin was one of the show’s defining features. He brought a level of seriousness and professionalism to the role, which grounded the show’s often speculative subject matter. Major Gatlin was depicted as a methodical and skeptical investigator, always relying on evidence and logic to solve the cases. Jordan’s ability to convey both authority and curiosity made him a compelling lead, and his performance helped elevate the show’s tension and intrigue.
Although Project U.F.O. only ran for two seasons, from 1978 to 1979, it gained a loyal following and became a cult favorite among fans of science fiction and conspiracy theories. The show was notable for its attempt to present UFO sightings in a grounded, documentary-like style, which differentiated it from other science fiction series of the time that often focused on more fantastical elements. Jordan’s work on the show solidified his reputation as a leading man on television and earned him recognition in the science fiction genre.
Other Television Roles
In addition to his work on Project U.F.O., William Jordan enjoyed a successful television career, appearing in a variety of shows throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. He was frequently cast in guest roles on popular TV dramas, action shows, and procedural series, often portraying military officers, detectives, or other authoritative figures.
One of his more notable guest appearances was on the long-running medical drama Emergency!, where he portrayed a doctor. His role on the show fit his professional, no-nonsense screen persona, and it allowed him to work within the framework of the high-stakes medical drama genre. Jordan’s ability to seamlessly transition between different types of characters—whether as a law enforcement official, military officer, or medical professional—was a testament to his versatility.
Jordan also made appearances on shows like The Rockford Files, Cannon, and Barnaby Jones, all of which were known for their strong writing and character-driven storytelling. These appearances further solidified Jordan’s status as a dependable character actor who could deliver strong performances across a variety of genres. His work in these shows demonstrated his ability to enhance the narrative by adding depth to the characters he portrayed, even in one-off guest roles.
In the 1980s, Jordan continued to find steady work in television, with guest appearances on shows like Magnum, P.I., T.J. Hooker, and Knight Rider. His authoritative demeanor made him a natural fit for these action-packed series, where he often played military leaders, law enforcement officers, or government agents. He also appeared in multiple episodes of Dallas, further showcasing his adaptability in both dramatic and action-oriented roles.
Film Roles and Later Career
Although William Jordan’s career was primarily rooted in television, he also appeared in several films throughout his career. His filmography includes roles in films such as Gray Lady Down (1978), a disaster movie about a submarine rescue operation, where he played an officer involved in the rescue mission. The film was well-received for its suspense and action sequences, and Jordan’s performance was praised for adding to the film’s sense of realism.
As the 1990s approached, Jordan continued to work steadily, though he began to take on fewer roles as he transitioned into semi-retirement. He occasionally returned to television for guest roles and also took part in film projects, but he largely stepped back from the spotlight to focus on his personal life.
Throughout his career, Jordan demonstrated a commitment to his craft, consistently delivering strong performances that resonated with audiences. His ability to embody authority and professionalism made him a go-to actor for roles in procedural dramas, military stories, and action-adventure series. While he may not have achieved the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries, Jordan’s contributions to television and film were significant, and his work continues to be appreciated by fans of classic television.
Legacy
William Jordan’s legacy in the entertainment industry is defined by his role in Project U.F.O. and his many memorable television appearances throughout the 1970s and 1980s. As Major Jake Gatlin, he became a key figure in a show that explored the mysteries of UFOs during a time when public interest in extraterrestrial phenomena was at an all-time high. His portrayal of the rational, determined investigator provided a counterbalance to the speculative nature of the show’s subject matter, grounding it in realism and making it relatable for audiences.
Beyond Project U.F.O., Jordan’s body of work across television and film demonstrates his versatility and dedication as an actor. Whether playing a doctor, detective, or military officer, Jordan always brought an authenticity to his roles that made him a standout in the procedural drama genre. His contributions to classic American television have earned him a place in the memories of viewers who grew up watching his work, and he remains a beloved figure among fans of science fiction and classic television shows.