Raymond Burr

Raymond Burr was a Canadian actor best known for playing defense lawyer Perry Mason in the television series of the same name and Chief Robert T.

Raymond Burr was a Canadian actor, best known for his lead roles as defense lawyer Perry Mason in the television series Perry Mason and as Chief Robert T. Ironside in Ironside. Born in New Westminster, British Columbia, he had a long career spanning film, radio, theatre, and television. Later in life, he became involved in philanthropy and owned vineyards in Sonoma County, California.

Early life

Raymond Burr was born in New Westminster, British Columbia, on May 21, 1917. He spent part of his childhood outside Canada before moving into acting. He began his career in theatre, radio, and film, often playing villain roles, and later built his career in the United States.

Career

Burr worked across theatre, radio, film, and television. He initially became known for playing antagonistic characters in films. He appeared in more than 90 films during his career. His most famous television roles were Perry Mason and Ironside, both of which became long-running and widely recognized. He won two Primetime Emmy Awards for his television work.

Personal life and later years

In later life, Burr became involved in philanthropy and owned vineyards in Sonoma County, California. He died on September 12, 1993, of cancer in the Geyserville/Healdsburg area of California.

Legacy

Raymond Burr remains one of the most recognizable Canadian-born actors of the classic television era. His performances in Perry Mason and Ironside secured his place in television history. He has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.