What happened and when: William Hopper death at a glance
William Hopper, American actor best known for playing Paul Drake in the Perry Mason radio and television series, died on February 2, 1970. His passing followed health challenges that began years earlier. Below is a verified timeline and answers to common questions, intended to remain useful over time.
Key facts at a glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | William Hopper | Biographical records |
| Date of death | February 2, 1970 | Obituaries, public records |
| Place of death | Hollywood, California, USA | Published obituaries |
| Age at death | 55 years old | Birth and death dates |
| Cause of death | Complications following a stroke | Obituaries, news reports |
| Notable role | Paul Drake on Perry Mason | Career archives, credits |
Timeline of key events
The events below are drawn from verified obituaries and contemporaneous reports. Dates are shown where documented.
- 1915: William Hopper born in Los Angeles, California.
- 1930s–1940s: Early film work as a child actor and extra.
- 1950s: Cast as Paul Drake in the Perry Mason radio series, continuing into the television series (1957–1966).
- 1960s: Appears in other television series and films while best known for the Paul Drake role.
- 1965: Suffers a stroke that affects his health in subsequent years.
- February 2, 1970: Dies at his home in Hollywood, California, from complications following a stroke.
Common questions about William Hopper’s death
Because details from decades ago can become unclear, these points focus on what reliable records show and why they matter for understanding his legacy.
- Where did William Hopper die? He died at his home in Hollywood, California.
- How old was he when he died? He was 55 years old at the time of his death.
- What was listed as the cause of death? Complications following a stroke; this is recorded in obituaries and public health records.
- Did his death mark the end of the Paul Drake character on television? Yes; with his death and the conclusion of the television series, the character did not continue in new episodes.
- Are there credible sources for these details? Yes; information comes from published obituaries, contemporary news reports, and widely maintained biographical databases.
Context: The Perry Mason era and Paul Drake’s role
Hopper’s identification with Paul Drake lasted far longer than many character actors’ careers. On radio, the detective was introduced in 1943 and continued into the 1950s; on television, Paul Drake appeared from 1957 to 1966. This longevity created a strong public association, making it difficult for audiences to separate the actor from the role in retrospect. Understanding this context explains why his death was noted beyond Hollywood circles.
Aftermath and legacy
Following his death, memorial notices highlighted his decades-long contribution to the Perry Mason franchise. Industry colleagues noted his professionalism during the show’s later years. For modern audiences, records of his credits serve as the primary reference point, ensuring the Paul Drake portrayal remains documented as long as the series is studied.
Why these details remain relevant
Clear records about figures like William Hopper support accurate media history and family research. By relying on obituaries, public records, and reputable databases, the information avoids speculation and remains applicable for researchers, biographers, and viewers revisiting classic television. The facts presented here are intended to withstand changing trends in media coverage.