Mowing Lawns For A Neighbor Helped Hugh O’Brian Get The Chance To Fill In For Perry Mason

by: Nina Ross
April 29, 2023

source: Getty Images

Hugh O’Brian is a name that many people recognize for his role as Wyatt Earp in the popular TV series “The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp,” which aired from 1955 to 1961. However, what many people don’t know is that O’Brian’s big break came from mowing lawns for a neighbor.

In the early 1950s, O’Brian was living in Beverly Hills and working as a lawn mower for his neighbor, Gail Patrick, who happened to be the executive producer of the popular TV series “Perry Mason.” In an interview with the Archive of American Television, O’Brian recalled that when Patrick was in need of a last-minute replacement for an actor, she thought of him and offered him the chance to audition for the role of Perry Mason’s law partner, Bruce Jason.

Despite having no prior acting experience, O’Brian saw this as his chance to break into the industry and took the opportunity. To his surprise, he landed the role and made his TV debut alongside Raymond Burr in “The Case of the Two-Faced Turn-about.”

This unexpected opportunity opened doors for O’Brian, and he went on to star in “The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp,” which became one of the most popular TV series of the time. He also appeared in a number of movies and TV shows throughout his career, becoming a respected and successful actor.

O’Brian’s story is a testament to the importance of being open to new opportunities, even if they come from unexpected places. His willingness to take a risk and step outside of his comfort zone led to a career breakthrough that many aspiring actors could only dream of.