“Perry Mason,” the iconic legal drama series, captured the hearts of audiences when it premiered in 1957, bringing to life the brilliant fictional lawyer from the mind of Erie Stanley Gardner’s novels. Spanning an impressive nine seasons and 271 episodes, the show solidified its place in television history. The role of the charismatic attorney, Perry Mason, was masterfully portrayed by Raymond Burr. However, behind the serious facade of his character lay a mischievous and playful side that often left his colleagues and crew in stitches.
Contrary to the serious and composed Perry Mason he played on screen, Raymond Burr was, in reality, a notorious troublemaker on the set. Known for his love of pranks, he had an unyielding enthusiasm for pulling off practical jokes on his fellow cast and crew members. Burr’s mischievous pastime became a daily ritual, and he relished the reactions his pranks elicited from his unsuspecting targets. Some of his elaborate gags even stretched over several months, showcasing his unwavering dedication to his favorite hobby.
While Burr’s pranks were numerous, one person, in particular, became his primary target – the show’s executive producer, Gail Patrick Jackson. Their ongoing prank war was a source of entertainment and camaraderie on the set. Their mischievous rivalry became a hallmark of the behind-the-scenes atmosphere of “Perry Mason,” bonding the cast and crew in laughter.
As fans of the show know, the chemistry between the cast members was undeniable. Beyond the pranks, Raymond Burr shared a close friendship with his co-stars, Barbara Hale (Della Street) and William Hopper (Paul Drake). The genuine camaraderie among the trio contributed to the show’s success and the seamless portrayal of their characters’ dynamic relationships.
In addition to the pranks, the behind-the-scenes secrets of “Perry Mason” are abundant. From the intricate workings of courtroom scenes to the art of detective work depicted in the show, every detail was meticulously crafted to create a captivating experience for the viewers.
The dedication and talent of the entire team, both in front of and behind the camera, were instrumental in making “Perry Mason” an enduring classic that continues to be cherished by audiences of all ages. Here are 10 behind-the-scenes secrets that shed light on the fascinating world of ‘Perry Mason’ and the talented individuals who brought the iconic legal drama to life:
- Impromptu Prank Wars: As mentioned earlier, Raymond Burr, who played Perry Mason, was known for his love of pranks. What many don’t know is that his pranks were not limited to Gail Patrick Jackson; the entire cast and crew were often caught up in impromptu prank wars that kept the atmosphere on set light-hearted and fun.
- Burr’s Hidden Talents: Besides being an accomplished actor, Raymond Burr had a hidden talent for painting. During breaks, he would often retreat to his trailer to work on his art, creating beautiful landscapes and portraits.
- The Real Della Street: Barbara Hale, who portrayed Della Street, Perry Mason’s loyal secretary, was just as dedicated to justice in real life. She was actively involved in charitable work, supporting various causes and even co-founding the Cleft Palate Foundation.
- Stanley Gardner’s Cameos: Erie Stanley Gardner, the creator of Perry Mason, made several cameo appearances in the show. He could be seen playing bit roles or appearing as an extra in some episodes.
- William Hopper’s Hollywood Heritage: William Hopper, who played private investigator Paul Drake, came from a distinguished Hollywood family. His mother was the legendary actress and gossip columnist Hedda Hopper.
- Easter Eggs in Courtroom Scenes: Keen-eyed fans might have noticed hidden Easter eggs in the courtroom scenes. Raymond Burr and other cast members would sometimes sneak in references to their previous works or personal interests as a playful nod to the audience.
- Real-Life Courtroom Consultants: To ensure authenticity, the show had legal consultants on set to advise the actors during the courtroom scenes. Some of these consultants were actual lawyers or judges, ensuring that the legal proceedings portrayed on screen were accurate.
- Long Hours of Filming: Filming “Perry Mason” was a demanding process that often required long hours on set. Despite the challenges, the cast and crew remained committed to delivering quality performances, and their dedication paid off in the show’s success.
- Innovative Use of Lighting: The show was praised for its innovative use of lighting techniques to create a film noir atmosphere. The interplay of light and shadow added depth and drama to the courtroom scenes and the overall visual style of the series.
- Enduring Popularity: Even after decades since its original run, “Perry Mason” continues to captivate audiences worldwide through reruns and streaming platforms. Its timeless appeal and compelling storytelling have secured its place as one of the greatest legal dramas in television history.
Despite Raymond Burr’s wild antics, his portrayal of Perry Mason left an indelible mark on television history. The character’s unwavering pursuit of justice and his brilliant legal mind resonated with viewers and cemented Perry Mason as one of the most beloved fictional lawyers to grace the small screen. The legacy of “Perry Mason” lives on, and in recent times, the character has been reintroduced to a new generation through the HBO reboot, embracing a neo-noir style. The show’s renewal for a second season in 2021 is a testament to the enduring appeal of the classic legal drama.
In conclusion, as fans continue to cherish the timeless brilliance of “Perry Mason,” the memories of Raymond Burr’s pranks and the camaraderie on set serve as a testament to the joy and laughter he brought to the world behind the scenes. Raymond Burr’s legacy as both Perry Mason and the lovable trickster lives on, forever etched in the annals of television history.
