William Layton (December 23, 1914, Kansas City, Missouri – June 15, 1995) was an American playwright and actor.
Layton trained as an actor at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.
He became interested in European theater on a trip to London with his friend, Thornton Wilder.
On his return to the United States, Layton joined the American Theatre Wing in New York.
Layton returned from the Second World War with hearing loss which accompanied him throughout his life.