Perry Mason, the iconic television series that aired from 1957 to 1966, remains a cornerstone of American legal drama. At the heart of this series, alongside the eponymous criminal defense lawyer, is Della Street, Perry Mason’s devoted secretary and confidante. Portrayed by Barbara Hale, Della Street is a character of intelligence, loyalty, and unwavering support for Mason, embodying the ideal professional partner in the legal world of the 1950s and 60s. This article delves into Della Street’s role in the series, with a particular focus on Season 7, highlighting her contributions to Mason’s success and the unique qualities she brings to the series.
Integral to Perry Mason’s Success
Della Street, as portrayed in the series, is far more than just a secretary; she is an integral part of Perry Mason’s legal team. Her keen observation skills, understanding of legal documents, and ability to anticipate Mason’s needs make her an invaluable asset in and out of the courtroom. In Season 7, as in all seasons, Della’s role is critical in helping Mason unravel complex cases and secure justice for his clients.
A Character of Depth and Complexity
By Season 7, viewers have come to know Della as a character of depth and complexity. Her professional relationship with Perry Mason often hints at a deeper, more personal connection, though it is never explicitly romanticized in the series. This subtlety adds a layer of intrigue and depth to their dynamic, making it a subject of interest and speculation among fans. Della’s loyalty to Mason, coupled with her own moral compass, often sees her going above and beyond the call of duty to assist in cases, demonstrating her commitment to justice.
Evolution and Growth
Throughout the series, and particularly by Season 7, Della Street’s character shows significant growth. From the series’ inception, Della is portrayed as competent and confident. However, as the series progresses, she takes on more complex tasks and becomes more directly involved in investigations, showcasing her evolving capabilities and the trust Mason places in her. This growth reflects broader changes in societal attitudes towards women in the workforce during the time the series aired.
The Heart of the Series
Della Street is undeniably the heart of Perry Mason. Her warmth, empathy, and strength provide a counterbalance to the often cold and analytical world of legal defense. In Season 7, her character continues to embody these qualities, providing emotional support to clients and serving as Mason’s moral and ethical sounding board. Her interactions with clients often bring a human touch to the cases, reminding viewers of the personal stakes involved.
Della Street’s role in Perry Mason, especially in Season 7, is a testament to her enduring appeal and importance to the series. As Perry Mason’s right hand, she is more than just a secretary; she is a partner in the truest sense of the word. Her intelligence, loyalty, and moral integrity make her a standout character in television history. As the series progressed, Della Street remained a constant, her character evolving yet always staying true to the core qualities that made her indispensable to Perry Mason and beloved by audiences.
