In Notting Hill, Hugh Grant plays William Thacker, the travel-bookshop owner whose life changes when movie star Anna Scott enters his shop. Although he is usually called “Will,” his full first name is William.
The 1999 film was written by Richard Curtis and directed by Roger Michell. William runs an independent shop specializing in travel books in London’s Notting Hill neighborhood. His ordinary, somewhat awkward life contrasts with Anna’s fame and constant media attention, creating the central romantic tension.
A common mix-up is to answer “Will,” because that is the name most characters use and the name often associated with Grant’s role. “Will” is a shortened form of William, however, so William is the canonical answer to the question. The character’s surname is Thacker, while Julia Roberts plays Anna Scott.
The shop’s premise also helps distinguish the character from Grant’s other romantic-comedy roles: William is not a politician, writer, or professional bachelor, but a bookseller whose store reflects his interest in travel and culture.