Barbara Hale biography

Barbara Hale was an American actress best known for her role as Della Street, the loyal secretary to Perry Mason, in the long-running television series “Perry Mason.” Here’s a brief overview of her biography:

1. Early Life: Barbara Hale was born on April 18, 1922, in DeKalb, Illinois, as the second daughter of Luther Ezra Hale, a landscape gardener, and Wilma Colvin. She grew up in nearby Rockford.
2. Modeling Career: Hale began her career as a model for a comic strip, and her striking beauty caught the attention of Hollywood agents. She was encouraged to pursue acting.
3. Film Debut: Barbara Hale made her film debut in 1943 with a small role in “Gildersleeve on Broadway.” Her early career involved supporting roles in various films.
4. Breakthrough Role: Hale’s breakthrough came with her role as the devoted secretary Della Street in the “Perry Mason” television series, which premiered in 1957 and continued for nine seasons. She starred alongside Raymond Burr.
5. Perry Mason Films: After the TV series ended in 1966, Barbara Hale reprised her role as Della Street in numerous Perry Mason television films, continuing to work with Raymond Burr until his death in 1993.
6. Marriage and Family: Barbara Hale was married to actor Bill Williams, and they had three children: Jodi, Juanita, and actor William Katt.
7. Awards: In 1959, Hale won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her role in “Perry Mason.”
8. Activism: Hale was involved in various charitable activities and became an advocate for children’s causes. She also served as a commercial spokeswoman for Amana Radaranges in the 1970s.
9. Later Career: While “Perry Mason” was her most iconic role, Barbara Hale continued to work in television and film, taking on roles in projects like “Ironside” and “Airport.”
10. Legacy: Barbara Hale’s portrayal of Della Street left a lasting legacy, and she is remembered as an integral part of the success of “Perry Mason.”
11. Passing: Barbara Hale passed away on January 26, 2017, at the age of 94, leaving behind a rich legacy in the entertainment industry.

Barbara Hale’s career spanned several decades, and her portrayal of Della Street remains a memorable and beloved character in television history.

Trivia of Barbara Hale

Absolutely, here are some trivia tidbits about Barbara Hale:

1. Modeling for Comic Strips: Barbara Hale’s initial foray into the entertainment world was as a model for a comic strip, which eventually led her to Hollywood.
2. Early Film Roles: Before achieving fame as Della Street in “Perry Mason,” Hale had supporting roles in various films, including “Higher and Higher” (1943) and “Lady Luck” (1946).
3. Perry Mason’s Right Hand: Hale played Della Street in the “Perry Mason” TV series for its entire nine-season run from 1957 to 1966, becoming an iconic character as Perry Mason’s loyal and efficient secretary.
4. Emmy Award Win: She won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 1959 for her role in “Perry Mason.”
5. Reunion Films: Barbara Hale reprised her role as Della Street in 30 “Perry Mason” television films, continuing the character’s legacy and working with Raymond Burr until his death in 1993.
6. Marriage and Family: Hale was married to actor Bill Williams, and they had a son, actor William Katt, who is best known for his role in the television series “The Greatest American Hero.”
7. Acting with Husband: Barbara Hale and her husband Bill Williams appeared together in the film “The Clay Pigeon” (1949).
8. Commercial Spokeswoman: In the 1970s, Hale served as a commercial spokeswoman for Amana Radaranges, showcasing her presence not only on screen but also in advertisements.
9. Generous Philanthropist: Barbara Hale was involved in charitable activities and became an advocate for children’s causes, reflecting her generous and caring nature.
10. Lasting Legacy: Her role as Della Street in “Perry Mason” cemented Barbara Hale’s legacy as an integral part of the show’s success, and the character remains a significant part of television history.

Barbara Hale’s career, marked by her talent and dedication, made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.