Ray Walston embarked upon a storied acting career, commencing with humble beginnings as a spear carrier for a local stock company. Subsequently, the family's relocation to Houston, Texas, prompted his father to endeavour to impart the intricacies of the oil business upon Walston; however, the latter opted to join a travelling repertory company, simultaneously assuming responsibilities for ticket sales and acting.
Walston's professional trajectory continued to unfold as he collaborated with the illustrious Margo Jones at the Houston Civic Theater for a six-year tenure, subsequently devoting three seasons to the Cleveland Playhouse before making his way to New York City in 1945.
Throughout his illustrious career, Walston garnered widespread recognition and accolades, including a Tony Award for his captivating portrayal of the Devil in the Broadway production of "Damn Yankees". Moreover, he secured two Emmy Awards for his outstanding performances in "Picket Fences" (1992) and cemented his status as a household name through his memorable rendition of the extraterrestrial "Uncle Martin" in the iconic television series "My Favorite Martian" (1963).
Regrettably, Ray Walston's life came to a close at the age of 86, succumbing to the debilitating effects of lupus on New Year's Day 2001, in the city of Beverly Hills, California.