Raymond Burr: Iconic TV Detective Legend

Raymond Burr was a Canadian-American actor who became a household name in the mid-20th century. He’s best kn for his roles as Perry Mason and Robert Ironside, two iconic TV characters that left an indelible mark on American television history. But there’s more to Burr’s story than just his on-screen personas. Let’s dive into the life and career of this fascinating actor, exploring his journey from a small-t boy to a Hollywood star.

Early Life and Struggles

Raymond William Stacy Burr was born on May 21, 1917, in New Westminster, British Columbia. His childhood wasn’t exactly a walk in the park. After his parents divorced, young Raymond moved around quite a bit. He spent time in China, where his dad worked as a trade agent, and later settled in Vallejo, California, with his mom and siblings.

Growing up, Burr faced some tough times. He claimed he never finished high school, which might sound surprising for someone who later became so successful. But don’t let that fool you – Burr was a smart cookie. He managed to take some courses at Long Beach Junior College, Stanford, and even the University of California. Talk about making the most of opportunities!

Breaking into Show Business

Burr’s acting career didn’t start with a bang. Instead, he slowly worked his way up the ladder. He began on stage and radio, cutting his teeth in local productions. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was a start. And boy, did he make the most of it!

When Burr finally made it to Hollywood in the 1940s, he found himself typecast as the bad guy. You know, the kind of character you love to hate. He played villains in B-movie thrillers, using his imposing physique and brooding scowl to great effect. It wasn’t exactly the path to stardom, but it paid the bills and gave him valuable experience.

The Big Break

Burr’s fortunes changed when he landed more prominent roles in films like “A Place in the Sun” (1951) and Alfred Hitchcock’s “Rear Window” (1954). These parts showed that Burr could do more than just play the heavy. He had range, and people were starting to notice.

But the real game-changer came in 1957 when Burr was cast as Perry Mason in the TV series of the same name. This role would define his career and make him a household name. Perry Mason was a defense attorney who never lost a case, and Burr played him with a perfect mix of intelligence and charm.

Perry Mason: The Role of a Lifetime

“Perry Mason” ran for nine seasons, from 1957 to 1966, and it was a massive hit. Burr’s portrayal of the clever lawyer earned him two Emmy Awards, in 1959 and 1961. The show became a staple of American television, and Burr became one of the most recognizable faces on the small screen.

What made Burr’s Perry Mason so popular? Well, he brought a certain gravitas to the role. Mason wasn’t just smart; he was also compassionate and determined. Burr’s performance made viewers believe that justice would always prevail, no matter how complicated the case seemed.

From Lawyer to Detective: Ironside

After “Perry Mason” ended, Burr could have easily rested on his laurels. But that wasn’t his style. Instead, he took on another challenging role in the series “Ironside” (1967-1975). This time, he played Robert Ironside, a detective who uses a wheelchair after being shot in the line of duty.

“Ironside” was groundbreaking in many ways. It was one of the first TV shows to feature a main character with a disability. Burr’s portrayal was sensitive and nuanced, earning him six Emmy nominations and two Golden Globe nominations. The show also helped raise awareness about accessibility issues for people with disabilities.

Personal Life and Secrets

While Burr’s professional life was an open book, his personal life was shrouded in mystery. He crafted a complex personal narrative that included claims of two marriages, a son who died young, and military service during World War II. However, after his death, many of these claims were revealed to be fabrications.

In reality, Burr was a gay man living in a time when being open about his sexuality could have destroyed his career. He had one brief marriage early in life, but his long-term partner was Robert Benevides, whom he met on the set of “Perry Mason” in 1960. They were together until Burr’s death in 1993, jointly running an orchid business and a vineyard in California’s Dry Creek Valley.

Beyond Acting: Burr’s Other Passions

Burr wasn’t just about acting. He had a green thumb and a taste for the finer things in life. He ed an orchid business and even started growing grapes for wine. Talk about a man of many talents! He was also a big fan of cooking and collected art and wines.

But Burr wasn’t all about the high life. He was kn for his generosity, often supporting various charities and sponsoring foster children. He even made multiple trips to visit U.S. troops in Korea and Vietnam. It seems Burr believed in giving back, using his fame and fortune to help others.

Legacy and Impact

Raymond Burr passed away on September 12, 1993, at the age of 76, after battling kidney cancer. But his legacy lives on. He left behind a rich body of work, with over 90 film appearances and numerous television roles. Burr’s contributions to entertainment were recognized posthumously when he was commemorated on a Canadian postage stamp in 2008 and given a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2009.

Burr’s impact goes beyond his on-screen performances. His portrayal of Robert Ironside helped bring disability issues into the mainstream, potentially influencing the drive for better accessibility in public spaces. And his long-running success as Perry Mason helped shape the legal drama genre, influencing countless shows that followed.

Conclusion

Raymond Burr’s life was a mix of public acclaim and private struggles. He overcame early challenges to become one of television’s most beloved actors, all while keeping a significant part of his personal life hidden from the public eye. His performances as Perry Mason and Robert Ironside not only entertained millions but also helped shape popular culture.

Burr’s story reminds us that there’s often more to public figures than meets the eye. Despite the complexities of his personal life, his professional achievements and philanthropic efforts left a lasting impact. From small-t boy to Hollywood star, Raymond Burr’s journey is a testament to talent, perseverance, and the power of reinvention.