A Canadian-American actor from British Columbia, Raymond Burr became one of television's defining stars. Born in 1917, he first drew notice on film as the menacing murder suspect Lars Thorwald in Alfred Hitchcock's 'Rear Window' (1954), then achieved lasting fame as the title lawyer in the long-running series 'Perry Mason' and later 'Ironside'. His deep voice and imposing frame made him a commanding screen presence. He died in 1993, remembered as an iconic television leading man who also left a mark in classic Hollywood cinema.
Raymond Burr
Actor · Since 1948
76 years (May 21, 1917 – Sep 12, 1993)New Westminster, CanadaNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
67 Movies · 22 Series
A Canadian-American actor from British Columbia, Raymond Burr became one of television's defining stars. Born in 1917, he first drew notice on film as the menacing murder suspect Lars Thorwald in Alfred Hitchcock's 'Rear Window' (1954), then achieved lasting fame as the title lawyer in the long-running series 'Perry Mason' and later 'Ironside'. His deep voice and imposing frame made him a commanding screen presence. He died in 1993, remembered as an iconic television leading man who also left a mark in classic Hollywood cinema.
1917-05-21 · New Westminster, CanadaNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
Raymond William Stacey Burr (May 21, 1917 – September 12, 1993) was a Canadian actor, primarily known for his title roles in the television dramas Perry Mason and Ironside. His early acting career included roles on Broadway, radio, television and in film, usually as the villain. He won two Emmy Awards in 1959 and 1961 for the role of Perry Mason, which he played for nine seasons between 1957 and 1966. His second hit series, Ironside, earned him six Emmy nominations, and two Golden Globe nominations. He is also known for his role as Steve Martin in both Godzilla, King of the Monsters! and Godzilla 1985.
In addition to acting, Burr owned an orchid business and had begun to grow a vineyard. He was a collector of wines and art, and was very fond of cooking.
After his death from cancer in 1993, Burr's personal life came into question as details of his known biography appeared to be unverifiable. Gradually, it was revealed that Burr had possibly contrived a life story that hid his homosexuality.