The last episode of the original Perry Mason television series, titled “The Case of the Final Fade-Out,” aired on May 22, 1966. While the character has seen numerous revivals and adaptations since then, this date marks the end of the iconic run starring Raymond Burr as the quintessential defense attorney.
Perry Mason: A Legacy of Justice
Perry Mason, created by Erle Stanley Gardner, transcended the limitations of episodic television to become a cultural phenomenon. For nine seasons, viewers were captivated by Mason’s unwavering dedication to justice, his ingenious courtroom strategies, and his ability to unearth the truth, often in dramatic fashion. The show remains a cornerstone of legal dramas and continues to influence popular culture.
The End of an Era
The decision to end the original Perry Mason series came as a surprise to many. While ratings remained strong, Raymond Burr reportedly desired to pursue other acting opportunities. The final episode, fittingly titled “The Case of the Final Fade-Out,” saw Mason defending a television producer accused of murdering a temperamental actress. It served as a fitting send-off, showcasing all the elements that made the show a success: intricate plotting, compelling characters, and a satisfying courtroom climax.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Perry Mason
To further explore the legacy of Perry Mason and provide deeper insight into the show’s history, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
FAQ 1: Was “The Case of the Final Fade-Out” Actually the Last Case?
Yes, “The Case of the Final Fade-Out,” which aired on May 22, 1966, was the final episode of the original Perry Mason series starring Raymond Burr. No further episodes were produced after this date. It marks the conclusion of the show’s initial run.
FAQ 2: Why Did the Original Perry Mason Series End?
While ratings were still respectable, several factors contributed to the show’s end. Raymond Burr expressed a desire to explore other roles and acting challenges. The demanding schedule of a weekly television series also took its toll.
FAQ 3: Were There Any Perry Mason Revivals After the Original Series Ended?
Yes, after a hiatus, Raymond Burr reprised the role of Perry Mason in a series of television movies beginning in 1985. These movies proved popular and continued until Burr’s death in 1993.
FAQ 4: How Many Perry Mason TV Movies Did Raymond Burr Star In?
Raymond Burr starred in a total of 26 Perry Mason television movies between 1985 and 1993. These movies brought the character back to a new generation of viewers and reaffirmed the enduring appeal of Perry Mason.
FAQ 5: Who Played Della Street in the Original Perry Mason Series?
Barbara Hale played Della Street, Perry Mason’s loyal and indispensable secretary, throughout the entire original series run. She also reprised her role in the later television movies, providing continuity and stability to the character dynamic.
FAQ 6: Did Any Other Original Cast Members Return for the Perry Mason TV Movies?
Yes, William Hopper, who played private investigator Paul Drake in the original series, returned for the first few Perry Mason television movies before his death in 1970. Barbara Hale also consistently reprised her role as Della Street.
FAQ 7: What Was the Premise of the Perry Mason TV Movies?
The television movies generally followed a similar format to the original series, with Perry Mason defending a client accused of a crime. The movies often featured contemporary settings and storylines, reflecting the changing times.
FAQ 8: Is the Perry Mason Character Only From the TV Show?
No, the character of Perry Mason was created by Erle Stanley Gardner in a series of novels. The television show was based on these novels, but adapted and expanded upon the stories. Gardner’s novels provided the foundation for the character’s enduring popularity.
FAQ 9: Has Perry Mason Been Adapted Into Other Media Besides TV and Novels?
Yes, Perry Mason has also been adapted into radio dramas and films. These adaptations further demonstrate the widespread appeal and enduring popularity of the character.
FAQ 10: Where Can I Watch Episodes of the Original Perry Mason Series Today?
The original Perry Mason series is available for streaming on various platforms, including Paramount+ and Amazon Prime Video. It is also often broadcast on classic television channels.
FAQ 11: Who Starred in the HBO “Perry Mason” Reboot?
The HBO “Perry Mason” reboot, which premiered in 2020, starred Matthew Rhys as Perry Mason. This version offered a darker, more gritty portrayal of the character, exploring his origins and early career.
FAQ 12: Is the HBO “Perry Mason” Reboot a Continuation of the Original Series?
No, the HBO “Perry Mason” reboot is a prequel to the original series. It focuses on Perry Mason’s life and career before he became the renowned defense attorney depicted by Raymond Burr. It presents a different interpretation of the character and his world.