Barbara Hale, American actress (d. 2017)

Barbara Hale, a quintessential American actress, became a beloved figure across generations, primarily for her iconic portrayal of Della Street, the sharp and loyal legal secretary to the brilliant defense attorney Perry Mason. Born on April 18, 1922, and passing away on January 26, 2017, Hale's career spanned decades, but it was her role in the long-running television series Perry Mason (1957–1966) that cemented her place in television history. Her exceptional performance as Della not only earned her critical acclaim but also a prestigious Emmy Award in 1959 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. Decades later, she gracefully reprised this signature role, bringing Della Street back to life for a new audience in 30 highly successful Perry Mason made-for-television movies, which aired between 1985 and 1995.

Early Career and the Path to Stardom

Before becoming synonymous with Della Street, Barbara Hale navigated a diverse path through Hollywood's Golden Age. Hailing from DeKalb, Illinois, she initially pursued a career in modeling before catching the eye of film executives. Her acting journey began in the early 1940s, where she quickly established herself as a versatile talent in various films. She signed with RKO Radio Pictures, appearing in numerous feature films ranging from dramas to romantic comedies. While she often played supportive or leading lady roles, her performances were always noted for their grace, intelligence, and natural charm. These formative years honed her craft, preparing her for the role that would ultimately define her legacy and make her a household name.

The Enduring Legacy of Della Street

The character of Della Street, as brought to life by Barbara Hale, transcended the typical portrayal of a secretary on television. Far from a mere background figure, Della was depicted as intelligent, capable, and an indispensable confidante to Perry Mason. She was often instrumental in his cases, providing keen observations and unwavering support, making her an early archetype of a strong, independent professional woman on screen. The dynamic between Hale's Della, Raymond Burr's Perry Mason, and William Hopper's Paul Drake was a cornerstone of the show's immense popularity. It wasn't just about solving a crime; it was about the trusted relationships that underpinned the legal drama. Her dignified portrayal, coupled with her subtle yet powerful presence, resonated deeply with viewers, who saw in Della not just a secretary, but a vital partner in the pursuit of justice. This role, airing during a pivotal era of television, profoundly influenced how legal support staff were depicted in popular culture.

A Triumphant Return: The Perry Mason TV Movies

Decades after the original series concluded, the public's enduring affection for Perry Mason and its beloved characters led to a remarkable revival. Beginning in 1985, Barbara Hale, alongside her long-time co-star Raymond Burr, returned to their iconic roles for a series of made-for-television movies. Hale's reprisal of Della Street was seamless; she effortlessly slipped back into the character, maintaining the integrity and charm that had made Della so popular. These 30 television films, produced over a decade until 1995, demonstrated the timeless appeal of the Perry Mason universe and the enduring on-screen chemistry between Hale and Burr. Even after Burr's passing in 1993, Hale continued to appear in the subsequent films, a testament to her dedication to the role and the franchise.

Accolades and Recognition

Barbara Hale's distinguished career was marked by significant recognition, most notably her Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 1959 for her work on Perry Mason. This award underscored her exceptional talent and the impact of her portrayal of Della Street. Beyond this prestigious honor, she received other nominations and remained a respected figure within the entertainment industry, celebrated for her consistent professionalism and memorable contributions to both film and television.

Frequently Asked Questions About Barbara Hale

What was Barbara Hale best known for?
Barbara Hale was best known for her iconic role as Della Street, the dedicated legal secretary to defense attorney Perry Mason, in the original television series Perry Mason (1957–1966) and the subsequent series of 30 made-for-television movies (1985–1995).
Did Barbara Hale win an Emmy Award for her role as Della Street?
Yes, Barbara Hale won a prestigious Emmy Award in 1959 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her performance as Della Street in Perry Mason.
How long did Barbara Hale play the character of Della Street?
Barbara Hale played Della Street for a total of 19 years across two distinct periods: the original television series from 1957 to 1966, and then in 30 made-for-television movies from 1985 to 1995.
What other notable work did Barbara Hale do in her career?
Before and alongside Perry Mason, Barbara Hale had a diverse career in Hollywood's Golden Age, appearing in numerous feature films for studios like RKO Radio Pictures in the 1940s and 1950s, showcasing her versatility in various dramatic and comedic roles.
When did Barbara Hale pass away?
Barbara Hale passed away on January 26, 2017, at the age of 94.