Billy Jean Wagner, a remarkable individual, emerged from a family with a strong military background, as her father, John H. Wagner, was a U.S. Navy commander, and her mother, Rudy Arnold Wagner, was a talented champion skier.
Billy Jean Wagner's formative years were marked by a serendipitous encounter with the illustrious film director Billy Wilder, who extended an invitation to her for a screen test while working on the iconic 1959 comedy classic Some Like It Hot, set against the picturesque backdrop of Coronado Island. Initially, her parents were hesitant to permit her to pursue the opportunity, but she eventually mustered the courage to complete the screen test, subsequently declining a role in Wilder's subsequent film, The Apartment.
Wagner's early career was characterized by a diverse array of experiences, including a stint as a fashion model, during which she traversed the globe, exposing herself to various cultures and ways of life. This period of her life was marked by a sense of adventure and exploration, as she traveled to numerous countries and destinations, broadening her horizons and developing a keen sense of global awareness.
As her career progressed, Wagner made her television debut in an episode of the popular western series Wagon Train in 1959, marking a significant milestone in her journey as a performer. This early foray into television set the stage for a successful career in the entertainment industry, as she went on to appear in a number of other shows and films, including the underwater adventure series Sea Hunt and The Aquanauts, where she showcased her skills as an underwater stunt double.
In addition to her work as a stunt double, Wagner also gained recognition for her work as a double for the actress Joanne Dru in the 1960 film September Storm, further solidifying her reputation as a talented and versatile performer. Throughout her early career, Wagner demonstrated a remarkable range and adaptability, taking on a variety of roles and challenges that helped her to establish herself as a respected and accomplished figure in the entertainment industry.
Noteworthy aside from her impressive proficiency in scuba diving and swimming, Wagner's résumé also boasts expertise in the sport of surfing. This multifaceted individual tied the knot with Courtney Brown, a kindred spirit in the field of underwater exploration, whom she met during her time working on the sets of the popular television shows Sea Hunt and The Aquanauts. The union resulted in the birth of a daughter, Tiffany, before the couple eventually went their separate ways through divorce.
Noted film actress Wagner enjoyed a multifaceted career, which encompassed a diverse range of cinematic endeavors, including appearances in the movies Rio Conchos, Out of Sight, Destination Inner Space, A Covenant with Death, Rosemary's Baby, and Guns of the Magnificent Seven, a testament to her enduring presence in the entertainment industry.
As a close confidante, Wagner shared a living space with fellow actress Sharon Tate, with whom she maintained a lasting and intimate friendship, often residing together in the same apartment for an extended period of time, fostering a deep and abiding bond between the two.
Wagner's impressive television portfolio boasts a diverse range of guest roles in iconic shows such as Flipper, where she undoubtedly brought her unique charm to the small screen, followed by appearances in Lassie, Mannix, and The Rookies, each showcasing her remarkable acting abilities. Furthermore, Wagner's notable television career was punctuated by a recurring role as Lenore "Casey" Case, the secretary to the illustrious Britt Reid on The Green Hornet, a position she held from 1966 to 1967.
Notwithstanding the tribulations she encountered in her personal sphere, Wagner's resilience and unwavering dedication to her community remained unshaken, as exemplified by her continued involvement as a valued member of the esteemed Malibu Historical Society, a testament to her enduring commitment to the betterment of her community, even in the face of adversity, including the devastating loss of her home and cherished belongings in a catastrophic fire.
