William Talman Jr. was born on April 4, 1915, in Detroit, Michigan. From a young age, he showed a passion for acting and theater. He founded the drama club at his high school and continued to pursue his love for the arts throughout his education.
Talman attended Dartmouth College and the University of Michigan, where he studied theater and honed his acting skills. He performed in several stage productions during his time in college, further cementing his passion for acting.
After graduating from college, Talman began his acting career in earnest. He appeared in various stage productions before making his way to television and film. However, it was his role as Hamilton Burger on the CBS series Perry Mason that truly catapulted him to fame.
Talman became a household name thanks to his role as Hamilton Burger, the district attorney who constantly tried to best Perry Mason in court. He brought depth and nuance to the character, making him a fan favorite. Talman's portrayal of Hamilton Burger has been hailed as one of the highlights of the show.
Outside of his acting career, Talman was committed to various humanitarian causes. He was the first actor to join the American Cancer Society's anti-smoking campaign, using his platform to raise awareness about the dangers of smoking.
In his personal life, Talman was married three times. He was married to Lynda Carter from 1942 to 1952, Barbara Read from 1953 to 1959, and Margaret Flanagan from 1961 to 1968. Talman had five children overall from his marriages.
William Talman Jr. left a lasting impact on the world of entertainment with his unforgettable portrayal of Hamilton Burger. His dedication to his craft and his commitment to important causes have solidified his legacy as a talented actor and a compassionate individual.
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