Todd Bridges is an American actor best known for his role as Willis Jackson on the iconic sitcom Diff’rent Strokes. He recently gained public attention for filing for divorce from his wife, Bettijo B. Hirschi, just three months after announcing their separation .
Quick Facts
Full Name: Todd Anthony Bridges Age: 60 (born May 27, 1965)
Nationality: American
Occupation: Actor
Known For: Role as Willis Jackson on Diff’rent StrokesMarital Status: Divorcing (filed March 31, 2026)
Children: 2 (son Spencir, daughter Bo)
Early Life and Background
Born in San Francisco, California, Bridges grew up in a show business family with both parents working as actors and talent agents . He moved to Los Angeles as a child and began acting in commercials and television shows at a young age.
Career and Achievements
Bridges rose to fame as Willis Jackson on Diff’rent Strokes, which aired from 1978 to 1986 . The show made him a household name alongside co-stars Gary Coleman and Dana Plato. After the series ended, Bridges faced personal struggles but later mounted a comeback with roles on Everybody Hates Chris and as a commentator on TruTV Presents: World’s Dumbest . He also appeared on Celebrity Boxing in 2002, defeating Vanilla Ice . Bridges authored a memoir, Killing Willis, detailing his journey from child stardom through addiction to recovery.
Major Event or Controversy
Bridges has been open about his past battles with drug addiction, which began when he was a teenager on Diff’rent Strokes . In 1989, he was tried for attempted murder and acquitted after defense attorney Johnnie Cochran argued his addiction had made him an unreliable witness . Bridges has since credited his Christian faith with helping him achieve sobriety and rebuild his life.
Why he is in the News
:On March 31, 2026, Bridges filed for divorce from his wife of three years, Bettijo B. Hirschi, in an Arizona court . He stated the marriage is “broken beyond repair” after attempts to resolve their problems failed . The couple, who announced their separation in January 2026, have no children together and have reached a mutual agreement regarding property and support.
Conclusion
Todd Bridges remains a significant figure in television history as a surviving star of Diff’rent Strokes. While his personal life has included legal troubles and divorce, he continues to work in entertainment and speak openly about overcoming addiction. His current divorce marks the end of his second marriage, following his previous union with Dori Smith that ended in 2012.
