Willett is best known for playing non-speaking roles, such as the character Tom on the sitcom television series Dear John which ran on NBC from 1988 to 1992.

His label was called Freeway Records and boasted releases by musicians such as Greg Penny; as well as Willett's own piano-playing alter-ego, "Herman Schmerdley".

For several years, Willett produced numerous records under his pseudonym, mostly covers and original tunes;[4] until the market for country music singles began to dwindle.

"[4] Following his recording career, Willett toured for a short period of time, performing in piano bars[3] and honky-tonks throughout the south.

After a short stint as a disc jockey at KENO radio, Willett began landing bit parts in films and television shows.

According to Willett, he has had "over 800 jobs in front of the camera", including over 100 films, 80 television movies and more than 145 TV programs; mostly uncredited and non-speaking roles.