Perry Mason

Year: 1957 First Air: 1957-01-01

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Overview

Classic courtroom drama following defense attorney Perry Mason as he dismantles the prosecution’s case and hunts for the real culprit. Each episode builds to a tense trial with sharp cross examinations and twisty reveals

Synopsis

Set in mid century Los Angeles, the series centers on famed defense lawyer Perry Mason and his small team as they take on seemingly unwinnable cases. Mason’s method blends investigative legwork with meticulous courtroom strategy, often turning trials on a single damaging contradiction. Secretary Della Street keeps the office running while private investigator Paul Drake tracks down witnesses and missing . The courtroom becomes a battleground where credibility is tested under pressure and surprises arrive late in the hour. The show’s mood is lean and procedural, emphasizing evidence, motive, and the art of questioning. Episodes typically culminate in a decisive cross examination that changes everything

Cast

Raymond Burr — Perry Mason Barbara Hale — Della Street William Hopper — Paul Drake Ray Collins — Lt. Arthur Tragg William Talman — Hamilton Burger

Trivia

Think about the show’s courtroom mechanics and how it fit into its era of television. Pay attention to which roles kept returning week after week.

Q1: What legal role does Perry Mason hold throughout the series?

Answer: Defense attorney

The show’s identity is built around the defense side of the courtroom and its tactics.

Q2: Which recurring character typically represents the prosecution opposite Mason in court?

Answer: Hamilton Burger

The Mason-versus-prosecution dynamic became a signature template for later courtroom TV dramas.

Q3: In the original 1957–1966 run of Perry Mason, who played Perry Mason?

Answer: Raymond Burr

Burr’s performance became so closely identified with the character that it helped define the show’s long-lasting cultural footprint.

PERRY MASON

Perry Mason