William Talman

William Whitney Talman Jr. (February 4, 1915 – August 30, 1968) was an American television and movie actor.

Related Topics:
February 4 - 1915 - August 30 - 1968 - Television - Movie

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Mr. Talman was best known as District Attorney Hamilton Burger in the long-running television series Perry Mason, and would have the unenviable task of losing to Mr. Mason (portrayed by Raymond Burr) in court week after week in each episode.

Related Topics:
Hamilton Burger - Television series - Perry Mason - Raymond Burr

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Mr. Talman is also known for being the first actor in Hollywood to film an anti-smoking commercial for the American Cancer Society. A lifelong heavy smoker, he was diagnosed with lung cancer, and knew he was dying when he filmed the commercial, which would air for over a year after his death in 1968. The short film began with the words, "Before I die I want to do what I can to leave a world free of cancer for my six children . . . . "

Related Topics:
Hollywood - American Cancer Society - Lung cancer

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