Raymond Burr was an exceptional figure in Hollywood’s Golden Age, best remembered for his commanding performances in iconic television roles such as Perry Mason and Robert T. Ironside. Audiences admired his imposing presence, deep voice, and strong moral gravitas traits that were magnified by his physical stature. For decades, fans have wondered:How tall was Raymond Burr?His height not only contributed to his on-screen authority but also influenced how he was perceived both on and off-screen. Knowing his height helps provide insight into his casting and legacy.
Official Estimates of Raymond Burr’s Height
Raymond Burr’s height has been subject to some variation across sources, but most reliable records place him between6 feet 1½ inchesand6 feet 2½ inchestall (approximately 187189 cm). According to CelebHeights, a crowd-sourced tracker that compiles data from public records and eyewitness reports, Burr stood about 6²1½³ (186.7 cm).
Early press reports from the late 1950s describe him as tall (six feet two and a half inches), solid (210 pounds), a physical combination that made him well-suited for roles requiring authority and presence.
CelebHeights Compiled Observations
- Listed at 6²1.5³ (186.7 cm) based on various sources
- Reported eyewitness accounts such as a naval serviceman who stood next to Burr at 6²1½³ and recalled Burr towering over him support this estimate
- Some press clippings indicate Burr might have been as tall as 6²2½³ in his prime ,
Why Burr’s Height Mattered in His Roles
Height was more than a trivial statistic for Burr it helped shape the characters he portrayed. As Perry Mason, the upright, undefeated defense attorney, and later as Robert T. Ironside, a powerful detective confined to a wheelchair, Burr’s physical stature reinforced the authority and presence essential to these characters.
He himself acknowledged the benefit: I find my size helps, emphasizing that his imposing frame made him naturally persuasive, whether seated or standing.
Impact on Casting and OnScreen Dynamics
- With an imposing height over six feet, casting directors found Burr ideal for roles requiring dominance and credibility, especially in courtroom and law enforcement settings.
- When cast alongside shorter co-stars such as William Hopper (Paul Drake, around 6²3³) Burr’s size created a compelling visual dynamic that emphasized his commanding presence without overwhelming scenes.
Height Across Different Stages of Career
During his early years in radio and film, Burr reportedly weighed over 300 pounds and stood around 6²2³.
Height and Physical Transformation
Burr’s notable weight loss from over 300 pounds down to around 210 before Perry Mason likely influenced his posture and overall bearing.
Comparing Height With His Television Characters
The visible impact of Burr’s stature is clear when comparing his characters:
- Perry Mason (19571966): As a tall, authoritative lawyer, his height complemented the character’s legal dominance and courtroom presence.
- Ironside (19671975): Even seated, Burr’s height allowed him to tower over most characters, reinforcing the detective’s resilience and status in spite of disability.
These roles capitalized on Burr’s size without making his height the focus, showcasing how physical gifts were blended with acting skill.
Legacy of His Physical and Artistic Presence
Raymond Burr’s height contributed significantly to his on-screen persona. Across a thirty-year television career and extensive film work, his stature supported portrayals of men defined by moral clarity, strength, and resilience even when facing adversity.
Height Symbolism and Audience Perception
- His tall frame became a symbol of trustworthiness and authority in the courtroom, law enforcement, and beyond.
- His size also enabled him to deliver emotional performances of genuine kindness and empathy, as described by co-star Ray Collins of Perry Mason.
His stature wasn’t merely an asset it was integral to the characters audiences loved and trusted.
So, how tall was Raymond Burr? Most credible sources list him between 6²1½³ and 6²2½³ (around 187189 cm), with the widely accepted figure of 6²1½³ (186.7 cm) supported by both eyewitness accounts and public records. Standing over six feet tall, Burr used his commanding presence to become a legend in roles like Perry Mason and Ironside. His height, combined with his skill and demeanor, helped shape how audiences perceived his characters. Ultimately, Raymond Burr’s stature became inseparable from the dignified authority he brought to screen a lasting legacy that continues to resonate.