This Actor Hid His Gay Affair for 35 Years: Here’s His Partner Who, at 93, Lives on the Actor’s Vineyard
ArchiveFirst published June 17, 2024. It may not reflect later developments.
Raymond Burr, born in New Westminster, British Columbia, on May 21, 1917, gained fame for his roles in Hollywood, most notably as the lead in “Perry Mason.” The show demanded long hours, with Burr often working 15-hour days, which left little time for a personal life. Reflecting on his career, Burr expressed regret: “I couldn’t be married, have a family, even have friends.”
Burr claimed to have been married three times, with tragic ends: his first wife died in a plane crash, his second marriage ended in divorce, and his third wife died of cancer. However, these stories were fabrications, revealed after his death. His only legitimate marriage was to actress Isabella Ward, who stated, “I was Ray’s first wife. If there had been a wife before me, he would have told me.”
Burr’s private life remained mysterious until his diagnosis of kidney cancer in 1993. He lived with his partner, Robert Benevides, for 35 years. They met in 1959 and possibly married in 1963. A close friend recalled, “Raymond always called Robert ‘my husband.’ He would knit sweaters for him in front of the fire.” Benevides inherited Burr’s entire estate, including a vineyard, after his death.
Burr was also known for his charitable work, adopting 27 children from various countries and helping them financially. He believed every child he helped was deserving of his time and money. Burr’s legacy continued through his vineyard, managed by Benevides, who now enjoys retirement, traveling, and maintaining the property left to him by Burr. Despite the revelations about his personal life, Burr remains celebrated for his talent and contributions to Hollywood.
