Douglas Rain

Douglas Rain, renowned Canadian actor, famously known as the voice of HAL 9000 in "2001: A Space Odyssey.".

Movie Actor | Soundtrack

March 13, 1928

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Douglas Rain, born on March 13, 1928, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, was a renowned actor and narrator, best known for his iconic voice roles. He began his career in the 1950s as a stage actor at the prestigious Stratford Festival in Ontario, where he excelled in classical theater performances.

Rain’s breakthrough came in 1968 when he voiced the sentient computer HAL 9000 in Stanley Kubrick’s sci-fi masterpiece, “2001: A Space Odyssey.” His chilling and emotionless delivery of HAL’s lines left an indelible mark on audiences, solidifying his status as a legendary voice actor. Rain’s distinctive voice also graced other notable films, including “The Andromeda Strain” (1971), “The Black Hole” (1979), and “The Last Starfighter” (1984).

Throughout his illustrious career, Rain received numerous accolades for his work. He won a Genie Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role for his portrayal of Dr. William Weir in “The Andromeda Strain” and was nominated for a BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his performance in “2001: A Space Odyssey.”

Beyond his voice acting achievements, Rain was also an accomplished stage actor. He continued to perform in theater productions throughout his career, captivating audiences with his versatility and talent.

Sadly, Douglas Rain passed away in 2018, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the entertainment industry. His contributions to voice acting have inspired generations of actors and continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.