Written by: Michael Rodriguez

Ray Collins: The Prolific Actor Who Dominated Stage, Radio, and Screen

Ray Collins was a towering figure in the world of acting, boasting an astounding 900 stage roles to his credit and making a lasting impact on the developing field of radio drama. He is perhaps best known for his memorable performances in film and television, including his iconic role as Lieutenant Arthur Tragg in the hit CBS TV series Perry Mason.

Early Life and Career

Born on December 10, 1889, in Sacramento, California, Collins was inspired to become an actor at a young age after watching a stage performance by his uncle, Ulric Collins. He began putting on plays with neighborhood children and made his professional stage debut at just 13 years old at the Liberty Playhouse in Oakland.

Rise to Prominence

In the early 1900s, Collins toured in vaudeville and eventually made his way to New York, where he worked prodigiously in his youth. He operated his own stock company for five years at his own theatre, the Empress Theatre, in Vancouver, and later became a key player in the Mercury Theatre company, led by the renowned Orson Welles.

Breakthrough in Film and Television

Collins made his feature film debut in 1941, playing the role of Kane's political rival in Welles' groundbreaking film Citizen Kane. He went on to appear in over 75 films, including notable roles in The Magnificent Ambersons (1942) and The Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer (1947). His television career saw him take on the iconic role of Lieutenant Tragg in Perry Mason, a character he played for nine seasons.

Awards and Honors

• Collins was nominated for two Emmy Awards for his work on Perry Mason.
• He was posthumously inducted into the Sacramento Valley Hall of Fame in 1978.

Personal Life and Legacy

Collins was married twice and had two children. He passed away on July 11, 1965, at the age of 75. His legacy as a pioneering actor in the early days of radio and television continues to inspire new generations of performers. With a career spanning over five decades, Collins left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

Fun Facts

• Collins' father, William Calderwood Collins, was a newspaper reporter and dramatic editor on The Sacramento Bee.
• He was the niece of John Bidwell, a pioneer and statesman who founded society in the Sacramento Valley area of California in the 19th century.

Ray Collins' remarkable career serves as a testament to his dedication, talent, and perseverance. As a true pioneer in the world of acting, he continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.