Perry Ivins embarked on his theatrical journey on the esteemed stages of Broadway in the 1920s, initially securing small yet significant roles that laid the foundation for his future endeavors. The advent of sound in motion pictures propelled Ivins to Hollywood, where he began his career as a dialogue director, gradually transitioning to bit parts and showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Ivins' articulate nature and refined demeanor made him an ideal candidate for white-collar roles, effortlessly portraying professionals such as doctors, reporters, professors, druggists, policemen, mayors, and other esteemed individuals. Notably, Ivins often blended into the background, becoming a subtle yet effective presence on screen.
Throughout the 1930s, Ivins appeared in nearly 50 films, solidifying his status as a dependable character actor. However, he suddenly vanished from the Hollywood scene for approximately eight years, only to resurface in 1947 and sporadically contribute to the film industry.
As television began to gain widespread popularity, Ivins made the seamless transition to the small screen, predominantly featuring in westerns, where he convincingly portrayed characters such as telegraph clerks, railroad conductors, store proprietors, and others.
Ivins continued to work in the entertainment industry until a couple of years prior to his passing in 1963, leaving behind a legacy as a dedicated and accomplished character actor.