Ray Walston
Ray Walston | |
|---|---|
| Born | Herman Raymond Walston November 2, 1914 New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Died | January 1, 2001 (aged 86) Beverly Hills, California, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actor, comedian |
| Years active | 1945–2000 |
| Children | 1 |
Ray Walston (born Herman Raymond Walston; November 2, 1914 – January 1, 2001) was an American actor and comedian. He is best known for his roles in television and film, particularly as the title character in the CBS sitcom My Favorite Martian and as Mr. Hand in the film Fast Times at Ridgemont High.
Early life[edit | edit source]
Ray Walston was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. He developed an interest in acting at a young age and began his career in local theater productions. He later moved to New York City to pursue a career on Broadway.
Career[edit | edit source]
Stage[edit | edit source]
Walston's stage career began in earnest in the 1940s. He appeared in several Broadway productions, including South Pacific and Damn Yankees. His performance in Damn Yankees earned him critical acclaim and led to his casting in the film adaptation of the musical.
Film[edit | edit source]
Walston's film career included roles in a variety of genres. He appeared in Kiss Them for Me, The Apartment, and Paint Your Wagon. His role as Mr. Hand in Fast Times at Ridgemont High became one of his most iconic performances.
Television[edit | edit source]
Walston is perhaps best known for his role as Uncle Martin in the CBS sitcom My Favorite Martian, which aired from 1963 to 1966. He also had recurring roles in Picket Fences and 7th Heaven. His television work earned him two Primetime Emmy Awards.
Personal life[edit | edit source]
Walston was married and had one child. He was known for his dedication to his craft and his ability to bring a wide range of characters to life.
Death[edit | edit source]
Ray Walston passed away on January 1, 2001, in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 86.
Legacy[edit | edit source]
Walston's contributions to theater, film, and television have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. His performances continue to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.
Selected filmography[edit | edit source]
- South Pacific (1958)
- Damn Yankees (1958)
- The Apartment (1960)
- Paint Your Wagon (1969)
- Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)
Selected television[edit | edit source]
- My Favorite Martian (1963–1966)
- Picket Fences (1992–1996)
- 7th Heaven (1996–2000)
Awards and nominations[edit | edit source]
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (Picket Fences)
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Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.- Pages with script errors
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- 1914 births
- 2001 deaths
- American male film actors
- American male television actors
- American male stage actors
- Male actors from New Orleans
- 20th-century American male actors
- Primetime Emmy Award winners
- Broadway actors
- Comedians from Louisiana
- American male comedians
- 20th-century American comedians
- Actor stubs
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
