The Original Perry Mason Cast vs The New Cast: A Journey Through Time and Character Revival

The world of detective fiction owes much of its allure to the brilliant mind of Erle Stanley Gardner, who introduced readers to the captivating character of Perry Mason in 1933. Tired of the monotony of his law firm job, Gardner sought solace in the realm of fiction, penning over 80 Mason novels that would leave an indelible mark on the genre. Alongside the resolute detective, Perry Mason, Gardner’s literary canvas included the loyal assistant Della Street and the resourceful private investigator Paul Drake, together embarking on thrilling journeys to solve intricate murder mysteries.

The advent of Perry Mason was nothing short of a literary sensation, captivating readers from the very beginning. Gardner’s creation became so beloved that Warner Bros produced six successful Mason films between 1934 and 1937, captivating audiences on the big screen. The detective’s popularity reached new heights when the CBS radio series converted Mason stories into 15-minute episodes in 1943, enthralling listeners for an impressive 12-year run.

As the demand for more Perry Mason stories escalated, CBS set its sights on bringing the legendary detective to the small screen. In 1956, the network approached Gardner with the idea of a primetime television series, marking the birth of the iconic Perry Mason TV series. The casting choice for the lead was paramount, and Raymond Burr was chosen to embody the famous detective. Gardner gave his instant approval of Burr as Mason, sealing the fate of the series. Alongside Burr, Barbara Hale portrayed the efficient Della Street, their on-screen chemistry earning them both two well-deserved Emmys. The Perry Mason TV series ran on CBS from 1957 to 1966, etching itself into television history.

Fast forward to 2019, and the resurgence of Perry Mason was in the works. HBO and Team Downey, led by Robert Downey Jr. and Susan Downey’s production company, set out to revive the immensely popular detective series for a new generation of viewers. The all-new HBO Perry Mason premiered on June 21, 2020, marking a contemporary interpretation of the classic character.

Old Cast (CBS TV Series, 1957-1966):

1. Raymond Burr portrayed Perry Mason, the iconic defense attorney, with unparalleled charisma and gravitas.
2. Barbara Hale embodied the loyal and efficient Della Street, Mason’s trusted assistant, earning her two Emmys for the role.
3. William Hopper brought the resourceful private investigator Paul Drake to life, providing valuable support to Mason in solving cases.
4. The chemistry between the lead actors contributed to the show’s enduring success, captivating viewers with their dynamic interactions.
5. The series adhered to a procedural format, with each episode featuring a distinct murder case for Perry Mason to tackle.
6. The show’s setting in the 1950s and ’60s added a nostalgic and timeless quality to the storytelling.
7. Gardner’s approval of Burr as Mason solidified the casting decision, creating an authentic representation of the beloved detective.

New Cast (HBO TV Series, 2020):

1. Matthew Rhys takes on the role of Perry Mason, offering a modern and multi-dimensional portrayal of the detective.
2. Juliet Rylance portrays Della Street, reimagining the character with a fresh and contemporary perspective.
3. Chris Chalk breathes life into Paul Drake, presenting a new interpretation of the resourceful investigator.
4. The casting brings a diverse and talented ensemble to the screen, infusing the series with a fresh energy and perspective.
5. The show adopts a serialized format, delving into Perry Mason’s origin story as a private investigator in 1930s Los Angeles.
6. The atmospheric setting of 1930s LA adds a noir-like quality to the storytelling, reflecting the era’s grit and glamour.
7. The exploration of Perry Mason’s personal struggles and complexities adds depth and nuance to the character’s journey.

Common Threads:

• Both casts bring their own unique charm and talent to the roles, keeping the spirit of Erle Stanley Gardner’s iconic characters alive.
• The enduring appeal of Perry Mason lies in the detective’s pursuit of justice and truth, which remains central to both portrayals.
• The series, regardless of the cast, captures the essence of classic detective noir, featuring gripping murder mysteries and legal drama.

In conclusion, the Old and New Cast of Perry Mason each brings its own strengths to the timeless character and the beloved detective series. While the original CBS series left an indelible mark on television history, the HBO adaptation pays homage to the classic while introducing a fresh perspective for modern audiences. Whether it’s the iconic chemistry between Raymond Burr and Barbara Hale or the modern complexity brought by Matthew Rhys and Juliet Rylance, Perry Mason continues to captivate audiences across generations with its enduring charm and enigmatic storytelling.

A comparison between the original CBS-produced Perry Mason and the modern HBO adaptation reveals several distinct differences:

• Time Setting: The original series remained true to Gardner’s time, set in the 1950s and ’60s. In contrast, the HBO adaptation opted for a compelling and atmospheric 1930s Los Angeles, delving into Perry Mason’s origins as a private investigator, enriching the character’s backstory.
• Character Exploration: While both Raymond Burr and Matthew Rhys brought their unique talents to the role of Perry Mason, the HBO series delves deeper into the detective’s complex personality and personal struggles. The modern adaptation aims to present a more multidimensional and flawed protagonist, offering viewers a deeper understanding of Mason’s journey.
• Supporting Cast: While Barbara Hale’s portrayal of Della Street was an integral part of the original series, the HBO adaptation takes a fresh approach to the character. Juliet Rylance takes on the role of Della Street, bringing a contemporary perspective to the loyal assistant.
• Storytelling Approach: The original series embraced a procedural format, with each episode featuring a self-contained case for Perry Mason to solve. In contrast, the HBO version adopts a serialized storytelling approach, weaving an overarching plot throughout the season, intertwining legal drama with character development.

The revival of Perry Mason on HBO pays homage to the classic while breathing new life into the beloved character. It celebrates the enduring legacy of Perry Mason while introducing a fresh and modern perspective to captivate a new generation of viewers.

In conclusion, the Original Perry Mason Cast and the New Cast of the HBO adaptation stand as two distinct yet intertwined chapters in the legacy of this iconic detective. Erle Stanley Gardner’s creation continues to inspire and entertain, proving that the essence of Perry Mason’s character remains timeless, transcending generations and mediums alike.