Net Worth Ranker
What Is Raymond Burr’s Net Worth?
Raymond Burr, the Canadian-American actor celebrated for his roles in “Perry Mason” and “Ironside,” possessed a net worth of $15 million at the time of his death in 1993. This figure represents the culmination of a long and prolific career spanning television, film, and theatre. His primary sources of wealth were derived from his acting roles, particularly his leading roles in long-running television series and made-for-TV movies.
Raymond Burr’s Career and Earnings
Burr’s career began in 1934 when he joined a Toronto repertory theatre company that toured Canada. Later, he joined another company that toured England, Australia, and India. His involvement with the Pasadena Playhouse began in 1937, leading him to New York, where he debuted on Broadway in “Crazy With the Heat” in 1940. However, his rise to prominence started with his extensive work in film noir during the late 1940s and 1950s. He appeared in nearly 50 films between 1946 and 1957, which included “San Quentin” (1946) and “A Place in the Sun” (1951). Although specific financial details from these early roles are not publicly available, they established him as a working actor and contributed to his early earnings.
His breakthrough came in 1957 with the CBS legal drama “Perry Mason.” As the lead actor, Burr starred in all 271 episodes over nine seasons (1957-1966). He received two Primetime Emmy Awards for his performance in “Perry Mason,” specifically for Best Actor in a Leading Role (Continuing Character) in a Dramatic Series in 1959 and Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Series (Lead) in 1961. While precise salary figures for his “Perry Mason” years are not public record, it is evident that his compensation was substantial, given the show’s popularity and his central role. It is reasonable to assume that his salary increased throughout the series’ run, reflecting his value to the network and the show’s success.
Following “Perry Mason,” Burr took on another iconic role as Robert T. Ironside in the NBC crime drama “Ironside,” which aired from 1967 to 1975, encompassing 199 episodes. Exact salary figures for “Ironside” are unavailable, but as the lead actor in a successful NBC series, his earnings would have significantly added to his net worth. Burr received six Primetime Emmy nominations for “Ironside,” along with Golden Globe nominations for Best TV Star – Male in 1969 and Best TV Actor – Drama in 1972.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Burr reprised his role as Perry Mason in 26 TV movies. His final acting project was in 1993’s “Perry Mason: The Case of the Killer Kiss.” Again, the exact financial agreements for these TV movies are not public, but it is understood that his earnings from each movie were a significant part of his income during this period. Burr’s agreement to return to the role that initially defined his career demonstrated the ongoing financial and personal rewards he derived from the “Perry Mason” character.
Raymond Burr also made notable appearances in films like “Rear Window” (1954), “A Man Alone” (1955), “Crime of Passion” (1957), “Tomorrow Never Comes” (1978), and “Airplane II: The Sequel” (1982). Additionally, he featured in the miniseries “Centennial” (1978–1979) and television series such as “Climax!” (1956), “The Red Skelton Hour” (1963–1970), “Kingston: Confidential” (1976–1977), and “The Love Boat” (1979). While the specific earnings from each of these roles are not available, they collectively enriched his financial status.
Raymond Burr’s Real Estate and Business Ventures
Beyond acting, Raymond Burr diversified his income through real estate and business ventures. From 1965 to 1983, he owned Naitauba, a 4,000-acre island in Fiji. He often welcomed friends and colleagues to his island retreat, which provided him with a sanctuary away from Hollywood. Although the precise financial details of his island ownership and eventual sale are not publicly accessible, it is clear that managing such a property involved considerable expenses and potential returns. The sale of the island likely contributed to his overall net worth at the time.
Burr and his partner, Robert Benevides, also operated a vineyard and an orchid business. Although the exact location of the vineyard is not specified, it’s known that they dedicated significant resources to this venture. The sale of wines and orchids would have supplemented Burr’s income from acting. Given the increasing popularity of boutique wines and orchids, the business likely proved to be a valuable asset.
Raymond Burr invested in various properties throughout his life. While specific addresses and transaction amounts are not readily available, his real estate holdings likely included residences in California, where he spent much of his career. Real estate investments, if strategically chosen, would have contributed to the appreciation of his assets over time.
Philanthropic Activities and Charitable Contributions
Raymond Burr was known for his extensive philanthropic activities. Throughout his life, he donated a substantial portion of his earnings to charity. He gave his salaries from the “Perry Mason” television films to charitable causes. He was actively involved with Save the Children and the Foster Parents’ Plan, through which he sponsored more than 25 foster children. His financial commitment to these organizations demonstrates his dedication to humanitarian efforts.
Burr donated money and “Perry Mason” scripts to Sacramento’s McGeorge School of Law. This contribution supported legal education and provided valuable resources to law students. His donation of Fijian cowries and cones from Naitauba to the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum further highlights his diverse philanthropic interests.
Raymond Burr established the American Fijian Foundation, which funded academic research. This foundation reflected his deep connection to Fiji and his commitment to supporting scholarly pursuits. Furthermore, Burr made several United USO trips to support American troops stationed overseas. His involvement in these trips shows his patriotism and his willingness to use his celebrity to benefit others.
Raymond Burr’s Legacy and Financial Disposition
Upon his death on September 12, 1993, Raymond Burr left his estate to his longtime partner, Robert Benevides. Despite tabloid reports suggesting the estate was worth over $30 million, his attorney clarified that this figure was an overestimate. Two of his late brother James’ children challenged the will, but their challenge was ultimately unsuccessful. Burr’s decision to leave his estate to his partner underscored the importance of their relationship and his wishes for the disposition of his assets.
Raymond Burr received honorary doctorates from Sonoma State University and the University of Colorado in 1993. These honors recognized his contributions to the arts and his philanthropic work. A star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (1960) and Canada’s Walk of Fame (2009) testify to his lasting impact on the entertainment industry. In 1996, “TV Guide” ranked Burr #44 on its “50 Greatest TV Stars of All Time” list, solidifying his place among the most significant figures in television history. In 2008, he was featured on a postage stamp in Canada Post’s “Canadians in Hollywood” series, and in 2009, he received the Canadian Legends Award. In 2023, the character of Perry Mason was inducted into the Online Film & Television Association Hall of Fame, further underscoring Burr’s influence on the world of entertainment. These accolades reflect his sustained popularity and his contributions to both American and Canadian culture.
