Perry Mason

About

Perry Mason is a pioneering legal drama that has significantly influenced the genre. The character, created by Erle Stanley Gardner, has been portrayed in various adaptations, most notably in the 1957 CBS series starring Raymond Burr and the 2020 HBO series starring Matthew Rhys. The original series, which aired from 1957 to 1966, follows the story of a Los Angeles defense attorney who, with the help of his secretary Della Street and investigator Paul Drake, defends clients wrongly accused of murder. The series has been renowned for its courtroom drama and detective work, often resolving cases with surprising confessions. The HBO series explores Perry Mason's origins as a private investigator during the Great Depression, delving into his personal struggles and professional development. Both versions have received critical acclaim for their performances and storytelling, with the original series winning multiple Emmy Awards and the HBO series praised for its cinematography and historical setting.