The 1963 episode of Perry Mason titled “The Case of the Potted Planter” featured a colorful cast of characters brought to life by some classic TV actors. This lighthearted courtroom drama continues to entertain viewers today. Let’s dig into the talented cast behind one of Perry Mason’s most memorable cases.
Raymond Burr as Perry Mason
No Perry Mason episode would be complete without the legendary defense attorney himself, played by Raymond Burr. Burr’s portrayal of Mason spanned over 250 episodes and defined the character as a clever, quick-witted lawyer dedicated to seeking the truth. In “The Case of the Potted Planter,” Mason must exonerate his client by finding the real killer, and Burr brings his trademark passion for justice to the role.
Barbara Hale as Della Street
As Perry Mason’s loyal secretary and confidante, Della Street was an integral part of every case. Barbara Hale embodied Della’s intelligence and integrity for over 200 episodes. In this episode, she supports Mason every step of the investigation, providing key insights that only Della could offer. Their playful banter and unbreakable trust always made for entertaining television.
William Hopper as Paul Drake
The ace private investigator Paul Drake, played by William Hopper, lent his sleuthing skills to Mason in nearly every episode Hopper’s charismatic performance made Drake a fan favorite as he tracked down clues and uncovered information crucial to Mason’s strategy In “The Potted Planter” case, Drake’s detective work provides the evidence Mason needs to expose the truth in court.
Other Series Regulars
While he doesn’t physically appear in this episode, Ray Collins receives credit for his role as Lt. Tragg the friendly police detective often exasperated by Mason’s unorthodox methods. Tragg was a classic character that Collins portrayed in over 100 episodes.
Guest Stars
A great ensemble of guest stars gave life to the episode’s array of suspects, witnesses, and prosecutors Some notable performances include
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Constance Ford as Frances, the troubled wife of the murder victim
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Diana Brewster as Andrea Walden, a mysterious woman from the victim’s past
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Paul Fix as District Attorney Hale, determined to prosecute the defendant
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Joe Maross as Nelson Tarr, an eccentric gardener and key witness
Behind the Scenes
In addition to its talented cast, the technical team behind “The Case of the Potted Planter” contributed to its enduring appeal. Director Jesse Hibbs, writers Erle Stanley Gardner and Robert C. Dennis, and others crafted a compelling mystery loaded with twists. Viewers also respond to the iconic 1960s sets and wardrobe that transport you right into Mason’s world.
Lasting Legacy
Over 60 years since its premiere, this classic Perry Mason episode continues to attract new generations of fans. From its cast of unforgettable characters to Mason’s inimitable courtroom reveal, “The Case of the Potted Planter” encapsulates everything fans love about the series. Given the talent involved both on screen and off, it’s no surprise this whimsical mystery remains a fixture in Perry Mason history.
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Three’s Company Cast Then and Now
FAQ
Did the original Perry Mason ever lose a case?
Episodes. When asked by a fan why Perry Mason won every case, Burr told her, “But madam, you see only the cases I try on Saturday.” Mason is known to have lost, in some form or manner, three cases—”The Case of the Terrified Typist,” “The Case of the Witless Witness,” and “The Case of the Deadly Verdict.”
Who played Andrea Walden on Perry Mason?
| Character | # | Air Date |
|---|---|---|
| Andrea Walden | 180 | 5/9/63 |
What is considered the best episode of Perry Mason?
I headed to the Perry Mason page and was quickly informed that the best/highest-rated episode of the original run is “The Case of the Lucky Loser” (season two, episode two).
Was Constance Ford on Perry Mason?
She made three appearances on Perry Mason, including the role of a woman with multiple personality disorder in the 1958 episode “The Case of the Deadly Double”, and as Frances Walden in “The Case of the Potted Planter” (1963) and defendant Sylvia Thompson in “The Case of the Shifty Shoebox” (also 1963).