…Or is it?
Traditional legal fiction enthusiasts would likely agree well beyond a reasonable doubt that Perry Mason is Raymond Burr and Raymond Burr is Perry Mason. Burr did such a masterful job portraying the world’s cleverest and cunning attorney that it’s nearly impossible to separate fact from fiction. I mean…who wouldn’t want a real Perry Mason a.k.a Raymond Burr representing them on a murder beef?
It doesn’t matter that Burr never passed the bar or practiced law—he’s Perry Mason in the eyes of legal drama connoisseurs. From 1957-1966 and then 1985-1993, Burr’s command courtroom presence, encyclopedic knowledge of criminal procedure, and destructive cross-examination complemented with his basso voice, got his clients out of every conceivable criminal jam possible. Okay so Mason pretty much handled murder cases exclusively, but no reason to quibble here on a legal technicality. That’s Burr’s job.
…Or is it?
If you’re inclined to side with Burr, you’d better first listen to this surprise witness’s testimonial evidence before committing fully.
Bailiff, call the next witness!
Hollywood-Walk-of-Fame Star and Emmy Award-winning actor – Raymond Burr!
According to the 1963 Celebrity Register, Burr jested about his inability to present a complicated legal criminal defense. “I’ve never managed to solve any of the cases until I read them through. In fact, I’ve often been puzzled about who committed the crime after we finished shooting the script.”
Oh well, maybe Burr wasn’t the great barrister we imagined, but he does top the honesty charts and, as any good lawyer fresh out of law school will advise you, the truth will always set you free. After all, honesty is the best policy.
…Or is it?
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