William Hopper was born into the family of thespians on January 26, 1915, in New York City. Most Hoppers of European descent in the US are related … William Hopper (1915-1970) was the cousin of American actor Dennis Hopper (1936-1910). You might want to look at DeWolf Hopper, b. Most Hoppers of European descent in the US are related … William Hopper: Early life. William Hopper (1915-1970) was the cousin of American actor Dennis Hopper (1936-1910). Yes. 1858 in NYC.He was a reknowned stage actor, married several times.His last wife was Hedda Hopper, and they were the parents of William Hopper (not Dennis Hopper), who played Paul Drake on the old Perry Mason series. His birth name is William DeWolf Hopper Jr and he was the only child of actor, singer, comedian, and theatrical producer DeWolf Hopper and his fifth wife, actress Hedda Hopper. Yes.