Sid Raymond
Actor
About Sid Raymond
Sid Raymond, born Raymond Silverstein, was a prolific American character actor and voice artist whose distinctive gravelly voice and comic timing made him a beloved figure in Golden Age animation and television. Beginning his career in vaudeville and radio, Raymond transitioned to film and found his niche in voice acting, most famously as the original voice of Katnip the Cat in the Herman and Katnip cartoon series at Famous Studios. His career spanned over five decades, during which he appeared in numerous live-action films and television shows, often playing comedic sidekicks or character roles. Raymond's voice work extended beyond animation to commercials and radio programs, where his unique vocal delivery became instantly recognizable to audiences. He continued working well into his later years, appearing in films like 'The Sting' and on television shows such as 'The Odd Couple' and 'Barney Miller'. His versatility as both a voice actor and live-action performer made him a valuable asset to Hollywood's entertainment industry during its golden era and beyond.
The Craft
On Screen
Sid Raymond was known for his distinctive gravelly voice and comedic delivery, which made him particularly effective in voice acting for animated characters. His style was characterized by a New York accent, rapid-fire timing, and the ability to convey both menace and humor simultaneously. In live-action roles, he specialized in playing lovable oafs, gangsters, and comic relief characters, often using his physical comedy skills and expressive face to enhance his performances. His voice work was particularly notable for its versatility, allowing him to create memorable characters with minimal dialogue.
Milestones
- Original voice of Katnip the Cat in Herman and Katnip cartoons (1940s-1950s)
- Regular appearances on The Abbott and Costello Show
- Voice work for numerous Famous Studios animated shorts
- Character roles in Golden Age Hollywood films
- Television appearances on classic sitcoms through the 1970s
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star (Radio category)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Sid Raymond made a significant impact on Golden Age animation through his work as Katnip the Cat, creating one of the most memorable antagonists in cartoon history. His distinctive voice style influenced generations of voice actors who followed, particularly in the realm of animated villains and comic characters. His work helped define the sound of American animation during the 1940s and 1950s, contributing to the golden age of theatrical cartoons. Raymond's ability to blend menace with comedy in his vocal performances set a standard for character voice acting that continues to be referenced in modern animation.
Lasting Legacy
Sid Raymond's legacy endures through the continued popularity of the Herman and Katnip cartoons, which remain beloved by classic animation enthusiasts. His contribution to voice acting helped establish many of the techniques and styles still used in the industry today. As a bridge between vaudeville, radio, film, and television, Raymond represents the versatility required of entertainers during Hollywood's golden age. His work preserved the New York comedic sensibility in mainstream American entertainment, influencing countless performers who followed. The characters he voiced continue to be discovered by new generations through television reruns and classic animation collections.
Who They Inspired
Raymond's gravelly vocal style and comedic timing influenced later voice actors such as Daws Butler and Don Messick. His approach to creating memorable animated characters through voice alone became a template for future voice actors. Many contemporary voice artists cite the classic cartoon performers of Raymond's era as foundational influences on their work. His ability to sustain a long career across multiple media demonstrated the possibilities for voice actors to achieve longevity in the entertainment industry.
Off Screen
Sid Raymond was married twice during his lifetime. He maintained a relatively private personal life despite his long career in entertainment. He was known among colleagues as a reliable professional and was respected for his work ethic and versatility. Raymond continued working in the industry well into his senior years, demonstrating his passion for performance. He spent his later years in California and remained active in the entertainment community until his health began to decline.
Education
Public schools in New York City; no formal acting training documented, learned through vaudeville experience
Family
- Dorothy Raymond (1930s-1960s)
- Joan Raymond (1960s-2002)
Did You Know?
- His real name was Raymond Silverstein, but he changed it for show business
- He voiced over 100 animated characters throughout his career
- Katnip the Cat was his most famous voice role, appearing in over 50 cartoons
- He began his career in vaudeville before transitioning to radio and film
- His distinctive gravelly voice was so recognizable that he often did commercial voice work
- He appeared on The Abbott and Costello Show in multiple different roles
- Despite being known for animation, he preferred live-action work
- He continued doing voice work well into his 80s
- His voice style was often imitated but rarely matched by other voice actors
- He worked alongside many of the greatest voice actors of the golden age
In Their Own Words
In animation, your voice is everything - it has to carry the whole character
Comedy is all about timing, whether you're on camera or behind a microphone
The beauty of voice work is that you can be anyone, anywhere, at any age
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Sid Raymond?
Sid Raymond was an American character actor and voice artist best known for his distinctive gravelly voice and his work as the original voice of Katnip the Cat in the Herman and Katnip cartoon series. He had a prolific career spanning from the 1930s through the 1990s, appearing in films, television shows, and numerous animated shorts.
What films is Sid Raymond best known for?
Sid Raymond is best known for his voice work in animated shorts such as 'Naughty But Mice' (1947), 'Base Brawl' (1948), 'Flip Flap' (1948), 'Saved by the Bell' (1950), and 'Teacher's Pest' (1950). He also appeared regularly on 'The Abbott and Costello Show' and had roles in films like 'The Sting'.
When was Sid Raymond born and when did he die?
Sid Raymond was born on January 21, 1909, in New York City, New York, and passed away on December 1, 2002, in California at the age of 93. His career spanned over six decades in the entertainment industry.
What awards did Sid Raymond win?
While Sid Raymond did not receive major acting awards, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the Radio category, recognizing his significant contributions to entertainment, particularly his voice work in radio and animation.
What was Sid Raymond's acting style?
Sid Raymond was known for his distinctive gravelly voice, New York accent, and rapid-fire comedic timing. His style was particularly effective in voice acting, where he could create memorable characters through vocal delivery alone. In live-action, he specialized in comic relief roles and character parts.
Learn More
Films
9 films
