Raymond Massey was born on August 30, 1896, in Toronto, Canada. He came from a distinguished family, as his father was the Canadian politician and former Governor General of Canada, Vincent Massey. Raymond Massey was educated at Balliol College in Oxford, where he studied history and political science.
During World War I, Massey joined the Canadian Army and served as an artillery officer. After the war, he moved to the United States and began his acting career on Broadway. He quickly gained recognition for his talent and stage presence, earning critical acclaim for his performances in various plays.
In the 1940s, Massey made the transition to film and appeared in several successful movies. He gained widespread acclaim for his role as Abraham Lincoln in the 1940 film, "Abe Lincoln in Illinois," for which he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Massey's other notable film credits include "Arsenic and Old Lace" and "The Old Dark House."
Raymond Massey was married three times and had three children. His first marriage was to Margery Fremantle, with whom he had a son named Geoffrey. His second marriage was to stage actress Adrianne Allen, with whom he had two children, Anna and Daniel. Massey's divorce from Allen inspired the 1949 film "Adam's Rib," starring Katharine Hepburn.
Throughout his career, Massey continued to work in film, television, and theater, earning praise for his versatility and talent as an actor. In 1964, he appeared in television ads supporting Barry Goldwater's presidential campaign. Massey's involvement in politics reflected his strong beliefs and convictions, aligning himself with the conservative values of the Republican Party.
Raymond Massey left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, with his memorable performances and dedication to his craft. His portrayal of historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln showcased his ability to bring complex characters to life on screen. Massey's legacy as an actor and activist continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.