Ray Walston

Born:November 2, 1914

Place of Birth:Laurel, Mississippi, USA

Died:January 1, 2001

Known For:Acting

Biography

Ray Walston, a distinguished American actor, graced the stage, television, and film with his remarkable talent. Born on December 2, 1914, he left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry until his passing on January 1, 2001. While many remember him as the lovable extraterrestrial in the 1960s sitcom "My Favorite Martian," his versatile acting skills extended far beyond that iconic role.

In the 1982 film "Fast Times at Ridgemont High," Walston portrayed the strict but endearing high school teacher, Mr. Hand, earning praise for his memorable performance. His ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters captivated audiences and solidified his status as a versatile actor who could effortlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles.

One of his most notable television roles was as Judge Henry Bone in the acclaimed drama series "Picket Fences." Walston's portrayal of the wise and principled judge showcased his range as an actor and garnered him critical acclaim. His nuanced performances left a lasting impression on viewers and further established him as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Beyond his on-screen work, Walston's contributions to the world of theater were equally significant. With a background in stage acting, he brought a level of sophistication and artistry to his performances that set him apart from his peers. His dedication to his craft and his ability to immerse himself fully in each role he undertook earned him admiration from audiences and critics alike.

Throughout his career, Ray Walston's talent and charisma endeared him to fans around the world. His legacy as an actor who could effortlessly embody a wide range of characters remains a testament to his enduring impact on the entertainment industry. Whether he was making audiences laugh in a comedy or moving them to tears in a drama, Walston's presence on screen was always a captivating one.

Despite his passing in 2001, Ray Walston's body of work continues to be celebrated and appreciated by generations of viewers. His contributions to film, television, and theater have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, solidifying his legacy as a beloved and respected actor. Ray Walston's talent, versatility, and passion for his craft will forever be remembered as a shining example of the power of great acting.

Images

Filmography

Acting

The Apartment

Joe Dobisch

1960

Bud Baxter is a minor clerk in a huge New York insurance company, until he discovers a quick way to climb the corporate ladder. He lends out his apartment to the executives as a place to take their mistresses. Although he often has to deal with the aftermath of their visits, one night he's left with a major problem to solve.

The Sting

J.J. Singleton

1973

A novice con man teams up with an acknowledged master to avenge the murder of a mutual friend by pulling off the ultimate big con and swindling a fortune from a big-time mobster.

Of Mice and Men

Candy

1992

Two drifters, one a gentle but slow giant, try to make money working the fields during the Depression so they can fulfill their dreams.

Popeye

Poopdeck Pappy

1980

Popeye is a super-strong, spinach-scarfing sailor man who's searching for his father. During a storm that wrecks his ship, Popeye washes ashore and winds up rooming at the Oyl household, where he meets Olive. Before he can win her heart, he must first contend with Olive's fiancé, Bluto.

The Player

Ray Walston

1992

A Hollywood studio executive is being sent death threats by a writer whose script he rejected - but which one?

Fast Times at Ridgemont High

Mr. Hand

1982

Based on the real-life adventures chronicled by Cameron Crowe, Fast Times follows a group of high school students growing up in Southern California. Stacy Hamilton and Mark Ratner are looking for a love interest, and are helped along by their older classmates, Linda Barrett and Mike Damone, respectively. At the center of the film is Jeff Spicoli, a perpetually stoned surfer who faces-off with the resolute Mr. Hand—a man convinced that everyone is on dope.

Galaxy of Terror

Kore

1981

As a lone spaceship proceeds on its long voyage across space, the crew are surprised to encounter a strange pyramid form. Surprise turns to horror as one by one, they discover that their darkest nightmares are all starting to become real. The pyramid has to be behind it all somehow, but how can they save themselves from its influence?

Silver Streak

Mr. Edgar Whiney

1976

A somewhat daffy book editor on a rail trip from Los Angeles to Chicago thinks that he sees a murdered man thrown from the train. When he can find no one who will believe him, he starts doing some investigating of his own. But all that accomplishes is to get the killer after him.

Johnny Dangerously

Vendor

1984

An honest, goodhearted man is forced to turn to a life of crime to finance his neurotic mother's skyrocketing medical bills.

Who's Minding the Store?

Mr. Quimby

1963

Jerry Lewis plays Norman Phiffer, a proud man in a humble life, who doesn't know that his girlfriend, Barbara, is heir to the Tuttle Department Store dynasty. Mrs. Tuttle, Barbara's mother, is determined to split the two lovers, and hires Norman in an attempt to humiliate him enough that Barbara leaves him. Will she ruin their love, or will he ruin her store?