Trivia

He is best known as the voice of the computer, HAL 9000, in Stanley Kubrick's 2001. Odisea del espacio (1968) and 2010: El año que hacemos contacto (1984). Along with Keir Dullea, he is one of only two actors to appear in both films.

In praising Douglas Rain's contribution to "2001: A Space Odyssey", Stanley Kubrick often said that he would like to direct him again - on-camera this time, but in a non-speaking role. However, they never worked together a second time.

HAL 9000 is listed as #13 on the American Film Institute's America's Greatest Villains.

Founding member of the Stratford Shakespearean Festival.

Narrated a 1960 National Film Board of Canada short film called "Universe". An inspired Stanley Kubrick reportedly had seen that film nearly a hundred times and originally cast Rain to provide narration for the film before ultimately asking him to instead be the voice of HAL 9000 in 2001. Odisea del espacio (1968).

Performed in a host of Shakespearean plays at the Stratford Festival in Stratford, Ontario.

Attended the University of Manitoba, worked in radio dramas and studied acting at the Banff School of Fine Arts in Alberta. In 1950, he left for a two-year apprenticeship at the London Old Vic Theatre School.

Was nominated for Broadway's 1972 Tony Award as Best Supporting or Featured Actor (Dramatic) for "Vivat! Vivat Regina!".

He was believed to have provided the voice of the computer in El dormilón (1973). However, the computer in this Woody Allen sci-fi spoof was done by an impersonator. According to Rain's sons - who know his voice well - this is an error. He did not play the role of the computer in Sleeper.

Made his Broadway bow in "Tamburlaine the Great" at the Winter Garden Theatre (1956).

Douglas James Rain passed away on November 11, 2018, six months away from what would have been his 91st birthday on May 9, 2019.

Had one daughter with ex-wife Martha Henry, Emma Rain.