In the 1963 Perry Mason episode called “The Case of the Potted Planter,” a lot of different characters were brought to life by famous actors. This lighthearted courtroom drama continues to entertain viewers today. Let us look at the talented people who worked on one of Perry Mason’s most famous cases.
Raymond Burr as Perry Mason
Raymond Burr played the famous defense lawyer, and no Perry Mason episode would be complete without him. Burr played Mason for more than 250 episodes, and the role made him known as a smart, quick-witted lawyer who was determined to find the truth. In “The Case of the Potted Planter,” Mason has to clear his client by finding the real killer. Burr brings his usual strong desire for justice to the part.
Barbara Hale as Della Street
Della Street was an important part of every case because she was Perry Mason’s loyal secretary and confidante. For more than 200 episodes, Barbara Hale played Della with intelligence and honesty. In this episode, she helps Mason with the investigation at every step and gives him important information that only Della could give. They always made for entertaining TV because of their playful banter and unbreakable trust.
William Hopper as Paul Drake
In almost every episode, William Hopper’s ace private investigator Paul Drake helped Mason with his investigations. Drake became a fan favorite as Hopper’s charismatic performance made him a favorite as he found clues and information that was important to Mason’s plan. In “The Potted Planter” case, Drake’s work gives Mason the evidence he needs to tell 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. A fan asked Burr why Perry Mason always won, and he said, “But madam, you see only the cases I try on Saturday.” At least three cases that Mason is known to have lost are “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).