William J Bruce III is a Canadian writer, producer and celebrity publicist.

As a publicist he has worked with Shawn Harper of the NFL and the “Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase of the WWE during Ted’s peak in Google Trends.

As executive producer to the compilation album Bridge Wars, he brought together artists such as F.E.R.N (Capitol Records artist produced by DukeDaGod of The Diplomats), and Mahogany Jones (four-time Champion of BET’s “Freestyle Friday’s”). Later in 2016 William became the executive producer and host of the Aussie Osbourne Show. The show featured in-depth interviews with celebrities such as Mike Mullane (former NASA astronaut), Alveda King (niece of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the daughter of civil rights activist A.D. King), and Charlene Li (Harvard magna cum laude graduate and NY Times bestselling author).

His writing has landed him cover stories with former Victoria Secret model Kylie Bisutti, P.O.D front man Sonny Sandoval and the “Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase of WWE. William’s work in film and his ability to hone the craft of writing assisted him in his role of script revisionist for the Eric Roberts film In the Blink of an Eye. The author of the memoir Penholder, William has also written the introduction to the 150th Anniversary Edition of Demons by Fyodor Dostoevsky.

Currently William is completing a novel called “Hate”(working title).

 

1) First, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this interview with me!  When did you know that writing is what you were called to do? What is it about being a writer that you love the most?

Thank you Jimmetta for having me!  Well, I remember having a desire to write when I was a middle schooler, but that quickly got suppressed. I returned to the idea after working on the film Home Beyond the Sun.  It began a long road to quiet the voice in my head that said I couldn’t.

In regard to what I love the most about writing, creating my own little world.

2) Can you tell us a little about your book(s) and where our readers can find out more about them and you?  

Sure, well, my first book was a memoir called Penholder.  The book as of 2022 is no longer in print, but it talks about a point in my life where I nearly killed myself and how God healed me.

In 2022 I got the privilege to write the introduction to the 150th Anniversary of Demons by the Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky.

Currently I am writing a novel called Hate (working title). The synopsis for Hate reads: “When music promoter Irvin learns of the sudden death of a friend, he is forced to confront the haunting mystery surrounding it. As unanswered questions linger, Irvin struggles to move forward—but could this tragedy have been something far more sinister than it appears?”

Readers can find me at: www.williamjbruceiii.com

3) What other projects are you currently working on?

I am in early stage talks to potentially partner on a business.  We will just have to wait and see that’s next 🙂

4) What has been your most significant achievement as a writer thus far? Where do you see yourself within your career in the next five years? 

I believe my most significant achievement has been opening up in my writing.  When I first started writing “Hate” I tried to suppress one of the characters.  He needed to use language that I didn’t want to use, and so later I literally told the character, “Here, you can use it here but nowhere else.”  Later I realized that I needed to let the character speak, and allowed him free reign.  I had to come to the knowledge that I was telling his story, and not mine.

5) How have you dealt with rejection within your writing career?

Yes, but more with those outside the writing world.  I don’t think it’s anything personal, I remember watching an interview with Jay-Z.  In the interview there was a segment where the audience could ask questions.  There was a young man who asked Jay-Z how to handle those who don’t believe in your dreams, and I felt that Jay-Z’s answer was so profound, yet simple.  He said, “You got to remember that they don’t believe that you can, because they don’t believe that they can.”  After hearing that answer, it helped me to have compassion on those who doubt.  I no longer want to fight the naysayers; I want to inspire them.

6) Do you believe that there is ever a point in life where it’s too late for an aspiring writer to become successful in this industry?  Do you feel a late start would hinder their chances?

Never, I always get inspired by those who are older and decide to take on their dreams.  Just look at the 58 year old Zeng Zhiying as she made her Olympic debut.  Or look at Hortense Anglin who at 87 years old graduated from University.  Such an inspiration! 

7) Given the recent shake-ups in publishing, what are your thoughts about how the publishing industry is being represented today? Do you lean more towards traditional publishing or self-publishing as a preference? Does being a hybrid author interest you?  

Personally, I believe disruption is a good thing.  I think it should be welcomed and championed.  I believe all three (traditional, self, and hybrid) have their place, and I believe each plays an integral role in helping authors to succeed.

8) I feel like writing is a remarkable tool to help people not only express themselves, but also to cope emotionally and mentally.  I know for me I write to be and feel more authentic. What unique quality is there about you, about your art, that you feel represents your authenticity?  How does writing help you to be more empowered in your purpose? 

I see myself as a very understanding person when it comes to peoples struggles.  Writing helps to communicate that love and understanding.  I’ve struggled with public speaking, oftentimes allowing nerves to dictate. Writing allows me to speak more freely what’s really on my heart and to be myself.