Host Scott Tong speaks with Billy Dee Williams about his memoir “What Have We Here: Portraits of a Life,” which reflects on his almost eight decades in theater, film, and television. The cover of “What Have We Here” by Billy Dee Williams. (Courtesy) Book excerpt: ‘What Have We Here’ By Billy Dee Williams January 1988. I was in New York, starring in August Wilson’s play Fences. I took over the lead role from James Earl Jones, something I don’t recommend to any actor.