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{{Short description|American actor (1932–1992)}}
{{Other people}}
{{Tone|date=April 2023}}
{{Use American English|date=September 2021}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2025}}
{{Infobox person
| name               = Anthony Perkins
| image              = Anthony Perkins 3 Allan Warren.jpg
| caption            = Perkins in 1975
| birth_date         = {{Birth date|1932|4|4}}
| birth_place        = New York City, U.S.
| death_date         = {{Death date and age|1992|9|12|1932|4|4}}
| death_place        = [[Los Angeles, California]], U.S.
| alma_mater         = [[Columbia University]]
| years_active       = 1953–1992
| occupation         = Actor
| spouse             = {{marriage|[[Berry Berenson]]|1973}}
| partners           = {{ubl|[[Tab Hunter]] (1955–1959)|[[Grover Dale]] (1964–1971)}}
| children           = {{hlist|[[Oz Perkins]]|[[Elvis Perkins]]}}
| father             = [[Osgood Perkins (actor, born 1892)|Osgood Perkins]]
}}
'''Anthony Perkins''' (April 4, 1932 – September 12, 1992) was an American actor. Born in [[Manhattan]], he began his acting career as a teenager in [[summer stock theatre]], and appeared in films prior to his [[Broadway theatre|Broadway]] debut. His first film role was in ''[[The Actress]]'' (1953). That same year, he debuted on Broadway in ''[[Tea and Sympathy (play)|Tea and Sympathy]]'', a performance for which he received critical acclaim.

Perkins starred in ''[[Friendly Persuasion (1956 film)|Friendly Persuasion]]'' (1956), which earned him the [[Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year – Actor|Golden Globe Award for Best New Actor of the Year]] and a nomination for the [[Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor]]. Following the film's success, he signed a seven-year, semi-exclusive contract with [[Paramount Pictures]], where he was regarded as the studio's last [[matinee idol]]. In 1957, he appeared in ''[[Fear Strikes Out]]''.

During this period, Paramount promoted Perkins in romantic roles, pairing him on screen with actresses including [[Audrey Hepburn]], [[Sophia Loren]], and [[Shirley MacLaine]]. He also took on more dramatic roles, including the Broadway production of ''[[Look Homeward, Angel (play)|Look Homeward, Angel]]'', for which he was nominated for a [[Tony Award]], and the film ''[[On the Beach (1959 film)|On the Beach]]'' (1959). He was cast as a romantic lead opposite [[Jane Fonda]] in her film debut, ''[[Tall Story]]'' (1960).

Perkins's portrayal of [[Norman Bates]] in ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'' (1960) became his most recognizable role. For this performance, he received a [[Bambi Award]] nomination for Best Actor and won the International Board of Motion Picture Reviewers Award for Best Actor. The success of ''Psycho'' led to [[typecasting]], prompting Perkins to buy out his Paramount contract and move to France, where he made his European film debut in ''[[Goodbye Again (1961 film)|Goodbye Again]]'' (1961). For this role, he received a [[Bravo Otto]] nomination for Best Actor, a second Bambi Award nomination, the [[Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actor]], and a [[David di Donatello]] Award for Best Actor.

Perkins returned to American cinema in 1968 with ''[[Pretty Poison (film)|Pretty Poison]]''. He subsequently appeared in several commercially and critically successful films, including ''[[Catch-22 (film)|Catch-22]]'' (1970), which earned him a [[National Society of Film Critics]] Award nomination for [[National Society of Film Critics Award for Best Supporting Actor|Best Supporting Actor]] (shared with his role in ''[[WUSA (film)|WUSA]]'', also released in 1970), ''[[Play It as It Lays (film)|Play It as It Lays]]'' (1972), ''[[The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean]]'' (1972), ''[[Murder on the Orient Express (1974 film)|Murder on the Orient Express]]'' (1974), and ''[[Mahogany (film)|Mahogany]]'' (1975).

He married photographer and actress [[Berry Berenson]] in 1973. He reprised the role of Norman Bates in ''[[Psycho II (film)|Psycho II]]'' (1983), ''[[Psycho III]]'' (1986), and ''[[Psycho IV: The Beginning]]'' (1990). His performance in ''Psycho III,'' which he also directed,<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://letterboxd.com/film/psycho-iii/crew/ |title=Psycho III (1986) |language=en |access-date=August 15, 2025 |via=letterboxd.com |archive-date=August 22, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250822042114/https://letterboxd.com/film/psycho-iii/crew/ |url-status=live }}</ref> earned him a [[Saturn Award]] nomination for Best Actor.

His final acting role was in the [[NBC]] television film ''[[In the Deep Woods]]'', which aired a month after his death on September 12, 1992, from AIDS-related causes.
{{toc limit|3}}

==Early life==
===Early life: 1932–1937===
[[File:Anthony Perkins Baby Mother.png|thumb|left|Perkins with his mother Janet at the beach, {{c.|1933}}]]
Anthony Perkins was born on April 4, 1932, in [[Manhattan]], New York City, the son of actor [[Osgood Perkins (actor, born 1892)|Osgood Perkins]] (1892–1937) and Janet Esselstyn (née Rane; 1894–1979).{{sfn|Winecoff|1996}} His paternal great-grandfather was the [[wood engraver]] [[Andrew Varick Stout Anthony]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bosarchitecture.com/backbay/beacon/196.html |title=Architecture of 196 Beacon Street, Back Bay, Boston |publisher=BOSarchitecture |access-date=November 3, 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140508025640/http://www.bosarchitecture.com/backbay/beacon/196.html |archive-date=May 8, 2014}}</ref> Throughout his early years, Perkins had limited contact with his father, who was occupied with acting roles.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=19}}

The family employed a French [[nanny]] named Jeanne, which led to Perkins' fluency in French.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=16}} In a 1983 interview with ''[[People (magazine)|People]]'' magazine, he recalled, "I became abnormally close to my mother; whenever my father came home I was jealous. It was the [[Oedipal]] thing in a pronounced form, I loved him but I also wanted him to be dead so I could have her all to myself."<ref name="People">{{cite magazine |last=Darrach |first=Brad |date=June 13, 1983 |title=Return of Psycho |url=http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20085251,00.html |access-date=January 3, 2009 |magazine=People |volume=19 |issue=23 |archive-date=June 10, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160610013140/http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20085251,00.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

Osgood Perkins died of a heart attack on September 21, 1937.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1937/09/22/archives/osgood-perkins-stage-star-dies-stricken-after-premiere-of-susan-and.html |title=Osgood Perkins, Stage Star, Dies; Stricken After Premiere of 'Susan and God,' in Which He Was Leading Man |work=The New York Times |date=September 22, 1937 |access-date=April 1, 2008 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=April 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408065958/https://www.nytimes.com/1937/09/22/archives/osgood-perkins-stage-star-dies-stricken-after-premiere-of-susan-and.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Following his father's death, Perkins experienced intense feelings of [[Guilt (emotion)|guilt]]. He later stated, "I was horrified. I assumed that my wanting him to be dead had actually killed him. I prayed and prayed for my father to come back. I remember long nights of crying in bed. For years I nursed the hope that he wasn't really dead. Because I'd see him on film, it was as if he were still alive. He became a mythic being to me, to be dreaded and appeased."<ref name=People/>

===After his father's death: 1937–1947===
[[File:TeenageAnthonyPerkins.png|thumb|Perkins in a school photograph, 1940s]]
A consistent female companion in Perkins' life was aspiring playwright Michaela O'Harra, who developed a close relationship with his mother. According to accounts from those who knew the family, including childhood friend [[John Kerr (actor)|John Kerr]], the bond between O'Harra and Perkins' mother was notably intimate. While the exact nature of their relationship has been subject to interpretation, it has been widely suggested that Perkins' mother was not heterosexual.<ref name=Biography>''Anthony Perkins: a Life in the Shadows'' [[The Biography Channel|Biography]]. (January 11, 1999).</ref>{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=15}} It was also during that time that Perkins' mother began to [[Sexual abuse|sexually abuse]] him. "She was constantly touching me and caressing me. Not realising what effect she was having, she would touch me all over, even stroking the inside of my thighs right up to my crotch." The behavior continued into his adulthood.<ref name=People/>

In 1942, when Perkins was ten years old, his family moved to [[Boston]]. Through her connections in the theatre industry, his mother secured a position at the [[American Theatre Wing]]'s Boston Stage Door Canteen, where she managed many of the canteen's operations. The job provided financial support for the two of them.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=25}} When she was occupied with work, Perkins was often sent to stay with his grandmother.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=26}}

During this period, Perkins began to struggle at the [[State school|public school]] he attended. He was described as a "gifted drifter" and began exhibiting rebellious behaviour, which was attributed to his mother's neglect. In response, she enrolled him at [[Brooks School]] in [[North Andover, Massachusetts]].{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=27}} The experience proved difficult: his childhood [[stutter]] reemerged, he avoided athletic activities, and his mother insisted he participate in baseball.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=28}} The pressure of the new environment led to extended school absences during his second year due to consecutive bouts of [[scarlet fever]], and his academic performance declined.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=29}}

Perkins eventually negotiated with his mother that if he improved his grades, he would be permitted to return to Boston for school the following year. He subsequently ranked in the top third of his class. His headmaster noted that Perkins was significantly more mature than his peers and lacked interest in many of their typical activities. Following this improvement, he was allowed to transfer back to Boston.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=29}}

===Summer stock: 1947–1950===
As Perkins matured, the absence of his father became increasingly significant to him. According to his mother, as he observed other boys with their fathers, he began to feel the loss of his own more acutely. His connection to his late father developed through an interest in theatre. To support this interest, a family friend who operated a summer stock company agreed to allow Perkins to participate in minor roles, initiating his early involvement in [[summer stock theater]].{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|pp=29–30}}

Perkins' first experience was with the Brattleboro Summer Theater in [[Vermont]], where he performed small parts in ''Junior Miss'', ''Kiss and Tell'', and ''George Washington Slept Here''. In addition to acting, he worked in the box office, earning $25 per week and obtaining his [[Actors' Equity Association|Equity]] card.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=30}} The following year, in keeping with an earlier promise, his mother enrolled him at Buckingham Browne & Nichols School, an all-boys school in [[Cambridge, Massachusetts]].{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|pp=30–31}} There, he distinguished himself and gained a reputation as the class [[Magic (illusion)|magician]] and pianist.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=31}} He was known for his [[Impersonator|impersonations]], including a popular imitation of actor [[Roddy McDowall]], which he frequently performed between classes.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=32}}

In 1948, Perkins returned to summer stock theatre, this time at the Robin Hood Theatre in [[Arden, Delaware]], where his mother had secured a position as a manager. He again ran the box office and took on stage roles.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=33}} His most notable performance that summer was in ''Sarah Simple''. During this time he met Charles Williamson, the first boy to whom he was attracted romantically.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=34}}

The following academic year, Perkins joined the [[Varsity team|varsity]] tennis team and the [[glee club]] at school. He also became co-literary editor of the [[school newspaper]], ''The Spectator'', to which he occasionally contributed articles.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=35}} Around this period, Perkins began to [[Questioning (sexuality and gender)|question]] his sexuality.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=36}}

===College: 1950–1953===
[[File:Anthony Perkins Summer Stock.png|thumb|Perkins (top row, center) in a summer stock company, c. 1950]]

After Perkins graduated from high school in 1950, he enrolled at [[Rollins College]] in [[Winter Park, Florida]], having been persuaded to attend after a college representative visited his school.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=36}}

That summer, Perkins returned to the Robin Hood Theatre in Delaware, which had by then become a prominent summer stock venue. While working there, he reconnected with Charles Williamson.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=37}} They spent time together during breaks, including having lunch and swimming. Perkins developed a romantic attraction to Williamson during this time, though the feelings were not expressed or acted upon. Both were navigating their sexuality privately and did not discuss it openly.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=40}}

During that summer, Perkins also played the role of Fred Whitmarsh in ''Years Ago'', a part he would later reprise in its film adaptation.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://movies.yahoo.com/movie/contributor/1800037259/bio |title=Anthony Perkins Biography  |website=Yahoo! Movies |access-date=June 18, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070214112345/http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/contributor/1800037259/bio |archive-date=February 14, 2007}}</ref>

At Rollins College that fall, Perkins struggled to find the same sense of community he had previously experienced. His arrival coincided with the [[Lavender Scare]], a period marked by heightened scrutiny and discrimination against gay individuals.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|pp=43–44}} There were a few supportive peers, including [[Fred Rogers]], who would later become known as a children's television host; Rogers allowed Perkins to use his piano, which he appreciated.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=45}}

Perkins participated in several stage productions and frequently changed fraternities, a pattern that frustrated his mother. During his time at Rollins, he reportedly began to explore his sexuality more openly.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|pp=45–47}} Not long after his arrival, a number of homosexual students—many of whom were his acquaintances—were expelled and arrested after a fellow student had beaten one of them.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=49}} Perkins was not among those disciplined, likely due to his relationship with a theater professor.

Despite avoiding expulsion, his association with those involved led to growing tension between him and other students, who knew of Perkins' sexuality.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=50}} As a result of the increasingly hostile environment, Perkins transferred to [[Columbia University]] in New York City.<ref>Notable Kin: An Anthology of Columns First Published in the NEHGS Nexus, 1986-1995, Volume 2 - New England Historic Genealogical Society, Boston, Massachusetts, by Carl Boyer, 3rd, 1998 pg. 118</ref>

==Career==
=== 1950s ===
==== Film and Broadway debut ====
While still a student at Rollins College, Perkins traveled to California during summer vacation in hopes of beginning a film career. Aware that [[Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer]] was producing a screen adaptation of ''Years Ago'', he spent time around the studio lot, hoping to be noticed by a casting director and offered a screen test.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=60}}

Perkins later recounted that he spent the summer running errands and delivering food for the studio guards. During a screen test for [[Margaret O'Brien]], a director needed someone to appear in the background, and a studio worker suggested using Perkins. He was called in to stand in front of the camera, and when the director asked him to move, he responded, drawing attention to himself. This unplanned appearance led to his involvement in the [[screen test]].{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=61}}

Later that summer, Perkins was cast in the role of Fred Whitmarsh in the film adaptation, retitled ''[[The Actress]]'' (1953), alongside [[Jean Simmons]] and [[Spencer Tracy]].{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=69}} The film was directed by [[George Cukor]], a former collaborator and friend of Perkins's late father.

Perkins gained wider recognition in 1954 when he replaced [[John Kerr (actor)|John Kerr]] in the lead role of ''[[Tea and Sympathy (play)|Tea and Sympathy]]'' on Broadway, directed by [[Elia Kazan]], another friend of his father. In the play, he portrayed Tom Lee, a college student perceived as [[effeminate]], who is "fixed" through a romantic encounter with a woman.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=68}} The role bore autobiographical parallels for Perkins, and he later described it as one of the most meaningful performances of his career. Despite the play's [[homophobic]] themes and resolution, it was one of the first major Broadway productions to depict homosexuality explicitly, and it attracted a significant gay audience.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=77}} Perkins's performance was well received and considered by many to surpass that of his predecessor.

Joan Fickett, who played opposite Perkins in the play, commented on his suitability for the role, noting the authenticity and emotional depth he brought to the character.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=96}} The play's success and Perkins's performance drew renewed interest from Hollywood.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1992/09/14/obituaries/anthony-perkins-star-of-psycho-and-all-its-sequels-is-dead-at-60.html|title=Anthony Perkins, Star of 'Psycho' And All Its Sequels, Is Dead at 60|last=Myers|first=Steven Lee|date=September 14, 1992|work=The New York Times|access-date=October 26, 2017|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612213038/https://www.nytimes.com/1992/09/14/obituaries/anthony-perkins-star-of-psycho-and-all-its-sequels-is-dead-at-60.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

According to biographer Charles Winecoff, Perkins was [[Conscription in the United States|drafted]] during the run of ''Tea and Sympathy'', despite the [[Korean War]] having recently ended. He reportedly informed the [[Selective Service]] that he was a "practicing homosexual" to be deemed unfit for military service. This decision reportedly had significant psychological consequences for Perkins and left him deeply affected.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|pp=92–93}}

====Serious roles====
[[File:FriendlyPersuasionSet.jpg|thumb|Perkins (left) and Gary Cooper (right) filming ''Friendly Persuasion'' (1956)]]
As his run in ''Tea and Sympathy'' concluded, director [[William Wyler]] dispatched his assistant, Stuart Millar, to scout talent on Broadway for the upcoming film ''[[Friendly Persuasion (1956 film)|Friendly Persuasion]]'', which focused on a Quaker family during the American Civil War. Millar attended a performance of ''Tea and Sympathy'' and invited Perkins to audition for the role of Josh Birdwell, the family's eldest son. According to Millar, Perkins was cast shortly after his audition.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=97}} He then traveled to Hollywood to begin filming alongside [[Dorothy McGuire]] and [[Gary Cooper]], who played his on-screen parents.

At the time, Perkins did not know how to [[Driving|drive]] and [[hitchhiked]] from his hotel, the [[Chateau Marmont]], to the film set, a fact that was widely noted in [[fan magazine]]s.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=103}} His partner, [[Tab Hunter]], later taught him how to drive.{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=136}} Perkins's lack of experience was noted by those on set, including actor [[Peter Mark Richman]], who stated that Gary Cooper was supportive of both himself and Perkins. Wyler reportedly praised Perkins's performance, and Cooper began to publicly support Perkins's acting career.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=101}} The two appeared together on the July 1956 cover of ''Life'' magazine,{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=100}} in which Cooper spoke favorably of Perkins.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=101}} Cooper's daughter, Maria Cooper Janis, later suggested that her father's support may have stemmed from both admiration for Perkins's talent and empathy for the challenges faced by [[closeted]] gay actors in Hollywood.<ref name="advocate.com">{{cite web|url=https://www.advocate.com/arts-entertainment/film/2012/08/08/hollywood-backstory-western-favorite|title=The Hollywood Backstory on a Western Favorite|website=The Advocate|date=August 8, 2012|access-date=January 23, 2022|archive-date=September 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240907121117/https://www.advocate.com/arts-entertainment/film/2012/08/08/hollywood-backstory-western-favorite|url-status=live}}</ref>

''Friendly Persuasion'' was released to critical and commercial success. Perkins received the [[Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year – Actor|Golden Globe Award for Best New Actor]] and a nomination for the [[Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000578/awards?ref_=nm_awd |title=Anthony Perkins: Awards |publisher=IMDb |access-date=January 21, 2022 |archive-date=December 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241219034729/https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000578/awards/?ref_=nm_awd |url-status=live }}</ref>

Following positive feedback from early film footage, [[Paramount Pictures]] signed Perkins to a seven-year semi-exclusive contract, allowing him flexibility to continue stage work. He was their last matinee idol and was called the "fifteen million dollar gamble."<ref>{{cite web |url= https://hrc.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/p15878coll90/id/52/ |title=Interview with Tony Perkins |website=The Mike Wallace Show |access-date=January 21, 2022}}</ref> His first film under the contract was the 1957 biographical drama ''[[Fear Strikes Out]]'', about baseball player [[Jimmy Piersall]]. The set was hostile and riddled with homophobia, which negatively affected Perkins during production.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=125}} Nonetheless, his performance received critical acclaim, with ''[[The Hollywood Reporter]]'' noting: "Every recent young star has been compared to [[James Dean]]. From now on the standard is Tony Perkins."{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|pp=139–140}}

Perkins subsequently appeared in the 1957 Western ''[[The Lonely Man]]'', co-starring [[Jack Palance]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/16857/the-lonely-man |title=The Lonely Man (1957) - Overview |publisher=Turner Classic Movies |date=June 14, 2011 |access-date=January 25, 2022 |archive-date=January 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122104838/https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/16857/the-lonely-man/ |url-status=live }}</ref>{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=117}} Reportedly, the film set was riddled with tensions, particularly between Palance and Perkins, which was exacerbated by delays due to weather.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=118}} Perkins's next Western was ''[[The Tin Star]]'' (1957), in which he starred alongside [[Henry Fonda]]. Though producers Bill Perlberg and [[George Seaton]] reportedly expressed reluctance to cast him,{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=128}} Perkins auditioned and was selected. During production, Perkins and Fonda took the hours-long drive out to the set together in the same car, during which they became closely acquainted.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=132}} ''The Tin Star'' grossed over $1&nbsp;million and is now regarded as a classic of the genre.<ref>"Top Grosses of 1957", ''Variety'', January 8, 1958: 30</ref>

In 1958, ''[[Newsweek]]'' described Perkins as "possibly the most gifted dramatic actor in this country under 30".<ref>"Tony Perkins: Shooting Star," Newsweek, March 3, 1958</ref>

====Teen idol status====
[[File:AnthonyPerkinsPublicityShot.png|thumb|Perkins in a 1957 publicity still for ''Modern Screen'']]
In 1957 and 1958, Perkins released three pop music albums and several singles under the name Tony Perkins through [[Epic Records|Epic]] and [[RCA Records|RCA Victor]].<ref name="AllMusic">{{cite web|url=http://www.allmusic.com/artist/tony-perkins-mn0000015860|title=Tony Perkins|website=[[AllMusic]]|access-date=January 9, 2008|archive-date=August 29, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130829145607/http://www.allmusic.com/artist/tony-perkins-mn0000015860|url-status=live}}</ref> His 1957 single "Moon-Light Swim" reached number 24 on the [[Billboard Hot 100|''Billboard'' Hot 100]]. In 1958, "The Prettiest Girl in School" gained popularity in Australia but did not chart successfully in the United States.<ref name="AllMusic"/> Perkins's musical pursuits were contemporaneous with the success of his then-partner [[Tab Hunter]]'s debut single "[[Young Love (1956 song)|Young Love]]", which topped the charts, leading some to speculate that Hunter's success influenced Perkins's interest in music. Despite this, Perkins reportedly made light of his own vocal style,{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=198}} and there is speculation that he did not have long-term commitment to a music career. He continued to record albums and EPs intermittently into the mid-1960s.

Although he was a life member of the [[Actors Studio]],<ref>{{cite book |first=David |last=Garfield |title=A Player's Place: The Story of The Actors Studio |url=https://archive.org/details/playersplacestor00garf |url-access=registration |year=1980 |publisher=Macmillan Publishing Co., Inc. |location=New York |isbn=0-02-542650-8 |page=[https://archive.org/details/playersplacestor00garf/page/279 279] |chapter=Appendix: Life Members of The Actors Studio as of January 1980}}</ref> Perkins did not pursue roles in musical theatre. Instead, in 1957, he used the flexibility of his studio contract to return to [[Broadway theatre|Broadway]] in ''[[Look Homeward, Angel (play)|Look Homeward, Angel]]''. Perkins played Eugene Gant, with [[Jo Van Fleet]] portraying his mother. The production ran successfully, and in 1958 Perkins was nominated for the [[Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/look-homeward-angel-2660|title=Look Homeward, Angel – Broadway Play – Original {{!}} IBDB|website=www.ibdb.com|access-date=February 7, 2019|archive-date=January 13, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210113163825/https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/look-homeward-angel-2660|url-status=live}}</ref> Reports from the production indicated tensions during rehearsals, particularly involving Van Fleet, whose behavior was described by some contemporaries as difficult.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=1952}} Among the audience during tryouts was Tab Hunter, who later recalled that Perkins initially gave a restrained performance, but showed significant growth later in the run.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=1954}}{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=197}}{{sfn|Hunter|2006|pp=198–199}}

[[file:Jo Van Fleet Anthony Perkins Look Homeward Angel 1958.jpg|thumb|Perkins with [[Jo Van Fleet]] in ''[[Look Homeward, Angel (play)|Look Homeward, Angel]]'', 1957]]
Despite reported tensions during rehearsals for ''Look Homeward, Angel'', the set was not without levity. Perkins's dressing room was located far from the stage, requiring him to move quickly between scenes to avoid missing cues. Cast members occasionally set up obstacles backstage as a practical joke to see if he could return in time. According to accounts, Perkins consistently made his entrances.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=158}} On the day of his final performance, the cast repeated the prank, and upon successfully navigating the obstacles, he was met with a sign reading "We love you, Tony!"{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=159}}

In 1958, Perkins appeared opposite Jo Van Fleet once again in ''[[This Angry Age]]''. That same year, he starred in ''[[Desire Under the Elms (film)|Desire Under the Elms]]'', alongside [[Sophia Loren]] in her first American screen kiss. In her 2014 memoir, Loren described Perkins as polite and gentle, yet visibly restless. She recalled their on-set dynamic positively, noting mutual support during filming.<ref name="Loren 2014">{{cite book|last=Loren|first=Sophia|title=Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow: my Life|publisher=Simon & Schuster|date=2014|isbn=978-1-4767-9742-7|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.orgs/yesterdaytodayto0000lore}}{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> However, critical reception of Perkins's performance was largely negative upon the film's release.{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=209}}

During this period, Perkins was offered a role in the 1959 film ''[[Some Like It Hot]]'', which would later star [[Marilyn Monroe]], [[Tony Curtis]], and [[Jack Lemmon]]. Perkins was considered for the role of Shell Oil Junior. The film involved the lead characters disguising themselves in women's clothing. Paramount executives reportedly declined to allow Perkins to take the role, concerned about the implications of casting a queer actor in [[Drag (entertainment)|drag]] for an entire film. The role ultimately went to Curtis.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=163}}

Instead, Paramount offered Perkins the lead in ''[[The Matchmaker (1958 film)|The Matchmaker]]'' (1958) opposite [[Shirley Booth]], [[Shirley MacLaine]], [[Paul Ford]], and [[Robert Morse]].<ref name="Hadleigh 1996"/> The film included a scene in which Perkins and another male character disguise themselves as women to evade detection. To secure his participation, the studio offered Perkins a salary of $75,000 for ten weeks of work, significantly more than MacLaine's reported $25,000 for the same duration. Perkins raised concerns about the pay disparity, but no changes were made to MacLaine's compensation.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=149}}

Though he defended MacLaine to studio executives, Perkins reportedly had a strained working relationship with her. MacLaine later reflected on the experience, commenting on his guarded demeanor and the difficulty in distinguishing between his public persona and authentic self.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=150}}

[[File:Hepburn-Perkins-1959.JPG|thumb|left|Perkins and Audrey Hepburn in a publicity still for ''Green Mansions'' (1959)]]
Following the loss of the role in ''Some Like It Hot'', Paramount cast Perkins opposite [[Audrey Hepburn]] in ''[[Green Mansions (film)|Green Mansions]]'' (1959),{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=167}} positioning the film as a means to promote his leading-man image. The studio emphasized his physicality, featuring scenes in which he appeared shirtless and engaged in physical combat. Perkins also performed the film's title song, "Green Mansions," which briefly charted.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=168}} Reflecting on the production later in life, Perkins described Hepburn as "wonderful to work with, like a real person, almost a sister".<ref name="Hadleigh 1996">{{cite book|last=Hadleigh|first=Boze|title=Hollywood Gays: Conversations with Cary Grant, Liberace, Tony Perkins, Paul Lynde, Cesar Romero, Brad Davis, Randolph Scott, James Coco, William Haines, David Lewis|publisher=Barricade Books|date=1996|isbn=1-56980-083-9|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/hollywoodgayscon0000hadl}}</ref>

Perkins next appeared in ''[[On the Beach (1959 film)|On the Beach]]'' (1959), which was filmed on location in [[Melbourne]] over a three-month period.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=178}} This production was noted for its collaborative environment. Perkins reportedly maintained a positive working relationship with the cast, including assisting [[Fred Astaire]], who was making his dramatic film debut.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=179}} In a 1983 interview with ''People'', Perkins named his co-star [[Ava Gardner]] as the first of several actresses who attempted to pursue a romantic relationship with him.<ref name="People" />

In ''[[Tall Story]]'' (1960), Perkins played a college basketball player opposite [[Jane Fonda]] in her screen debut. To prepare for the role, he underwent basketball training.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=187}} Unlike his experience filming ''Fear Strikes Out'', he found the atmosphere on ''Tall Story'' more welcoming.

Perkins and Fonda shared a professional rapport, aided in part by Perkins's previous work with her father, actor Henry Fonda. According to Fonda, Perkins offered her advice on camera performance techniques, including how to position herself effectively within the frame. She credited him with helping her understand how to act for the screen.<ref name="Bosworth 2011">{{cite book|last=Bosworth|first=Patricia|title=Jane Fonda: the Private Life of a Public Woman|publisher=Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing|date=2011|isbn=978-0-547-15257-8|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/isbn_9780547152578}}</ref> Fonda also developed a personal affection for Perkins during filming.<ref name="People" /> In later reflections, she acknowledged both she and director [[Joshua Logan]] had developed feelings for him, which led to complications during the production.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Jane Fonda & Lily Tomlin Answer the Web's Most Searched Questions &#124; WIRED |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9tgFMR4wgA%3Ft%3D63 |via=YouTube |magazine=Wired |access-date=January 9, 2022 |archive-date=February 23, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250223002216/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9tgFMR4wgA%3Ft%3D63 |url-status=live }}</ref> Fonda, however, expressed an awareness of Perkins's sexuality and indicated that this did not diminish her admiration or affection for him.

=== 1960s ===
==== Troubles with Paramount ====
[[File:APerkinsPublicity.jpg|thumb|Publicity photos taken in 1959]]

After signing with Paramount Pictures in 1955, Perkins was promoted by the studio as its final matinee idol. He was cast in a succession of leading roles intended to solidify his image as a romantic and masculine screen presence. By the time he had completed three films for the studio, Paramount had reportedly invested approximately $15&nbsp;million in his career, prior to the release of any of the films. This significant investment contributed to growing tensions between Perkins and the studio.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=123}}

Perkins, for his part, expressed dissatisfaction with the direction of his film career. While his contract allowed him to return to the Broadway stage, the majority of his fame stemmed from his film work, where Paramount consistently placed him in conventional leading-man roles. Perkins reportedly sought to be recognized as a serious character actor rather than a teen idol. His resistance to being typecast, particularly in roles that emphasized traditional masculinity, resulted in the loss of certain opportunities, including the roles of Shell Oil Junior in ''Some Like It Hot''{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=163}} and Tony in ''[[West Side Story (1961 film)|West Side Story]]''.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=209}}

Additional tension reportedly arose between Perkins and Paramount president [[Barney Balaban]]. According to multiple accounts, Balaban objected to Perkins's homosexuality and his relationship with actor [[Tab Hunter]]. Perkins was allegedly pressured by the studio to end the relationship and was urged to undergo [[conversion therapy]] during his contract period. One associate of Perkins recalled a conversation in which Perkins responded to the studio's demands by affirming his relationship with Hunter.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=124}} Hunter himself later stated that, unlike his experience at Warner Bros., Paramount intervened in his relationship with Perkins and requested that the two cease seeing each other. Despite this, the relationship continued for a time.<ref name="attitude.co.uk">{{cite news|last1=Hunter|first1=Tab|date=July 9, 2018|title=Exclusive: Tab Hunter Recounts His Relationship With "Psycho" Star Anthony Perkins|newspaper=Attitude|department=Exclusive|url=https://attitude.co.uk/article/exclusive-tab-hunter-recounts-his-secret-relationship-with-psycho-star-anthony-perkins/18188/|access-date=December 18, 2021|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218200358/https://attitude.co.uk/article/exclusive-tab-hunter-recounts-his-secret-relationship-with-psycho-star-anthony-perkins/18188/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Sources suggest that Perkins resisted studio pressure until approximately 1959, during the period between filming ''Tall Story'' and ''Psycho''.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=124}} Around this time, efforts by studio executives to distance him from Hunter were reportedly successful. This separation is often cited as a contributing factor in Perkins's decision to buy out the remainder of his contract with Paramount, following a similar move previously made by Hunter at Warner Bros.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=219}}

==== ''Psycho'' and ''Greenwillow'' ====
Perkins starred as [[Norman Bates]] in Alfred Hitchcock's ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'' (1960). According to Hitchcock, he had considered Perkins for the role since seeing his performance in ''Friendly Persuasion''.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=91947125|title=Norman Bates: A Most Terrifying Mama's Boy|work=NPR.org|access-date=October 26, 2017|language=en|archive-date=October 8, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231008063142/https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=91947125|url-status=live}}</ref>

While filming ''Psycho'', Perkins was also performing in the Broadway musical ''[[Greenwillow]]'', composed by [[Frank Loesser]], who reportedly disliked Perkins for being queer.<ref name="Winecoff 1996, pg. 204">Winecoff 1996, pg. 204</ref> Despite this, Perkins received critical praise for his performance in the show. Director [[George Roy Hill]] commented on Perkins's performance, stating that while his voice did not possess the typical qualities of a Broadway vocalist, it was free of the harsher tones often associated with musical theatre, and that his main solo, "Never Will I Marry", showcased his strengths.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=205}} For his work in ''Greenwillow'', Perkins was nominated for another [[Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical]].

''Psycho'' was produced on a limited budget, with both Perkins and co-star [[Janet Leigh]] accepting reduced salaries. Much of the crew was borrowed from Hitchcock's television series ''[[Alfred Hitchcock Presents]]''.<ref>{{cite book|last=Leigh|first=Janet|title=Psycho: Behind the Scenes of the Classic Thriller|publisher=Harmony Books|date=1995|isbn=0-517-70112-X|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/psychobehindscen0000leig}}</ref> Despite the modest production resources, the film achieved substantial critical and commercial success. Perkins's performance earned him the Best Actor Award from the International Board of Motion Picture Reviewers and brought him international recognition. The character of Norman Bates became closely associated with Perkins and remained a defining role throughout his career; he appeared in multiple sequels over the ensuing decades.<ref name="nytimes.com">{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1992/09/16/arts/anthony-perkins-s-wife-tells-of-2-years-of-secrecy.html|title=Anthony Perkins's Wife Tells of 2 Years of Secrecy|last=Weinraub|first=Bernard|date=September 16, 1992|work=The New York Times|access-date=October 26, 2017|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=June 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180613005120/https://www.nytimes.com/1992/09/16/arts/anthony-perkins-s-wife-tells-of-2-years-of-secrecy.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
{{Gallery
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|File:Anthony Perkins Psycho Publicity Photo.jpg
 |Perkins in 1960, filming ''Psycho''
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}}

==== European films ====
[[File:GoodbyeAgainPoster.png|thumb|Perkins and Ingrid Bergman in an advertisement for ''Goodbye Again'' (1961)]]

After buying out his contract with Paramount, Perkins relocated to France and began working in European cinema. His first film in this period was ''[[Goodbye Again (1961 film)|Goodbye Again]]'' (1961), co-starring [[Ingrid Bergman]] and filmed in Paris. The film was originally titled ''Time on Her Hands'', but the English-language title ''Goodbye Again'' was suggested by Perkins, referencing one of his father's plays.<ref name="Foshee">{{cite news|url=https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/17134/goodbye-again/#articles-reviews?articleId=88170|title=Goodbye Again|work=Turner Classic Movies|first=Andrea|last=Foshee|date=November 19, 2007|access-date=January 9, 2022|archive-date=January 9, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220109220010/https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/17134/goodbye-again/#articles-reviews?articleId=88170|url-status=live}}</ref> During production, Bergman reportedly expressed romantic interest in Perkins, which he declined.<ref name=People/> Perkins's performance in the film received critical acclaim and earned him the [[Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actor]].<ref name="Foshee"/>

Perkins briefly returned to the United States in 1962 to appear in the Broadway play ''Harold'', although the production had a short run. He soon returned to Europe, where he was cast in ''[[Phaedra (film)|Phaedra]]'' (1962), co-starring [[Melina Mercouri]]. The role received favorable reviews. Mercouri later commented on Perkins's enigmatic screen presence, describing him as both attractive and elusive.<ref name="Winecoff">{{cite book|last=Winecoff|first=Charles|title=Split image: the life of Anthony Perkins|publisher=Dutton|year=199}}</ref>

Following ''Phaedra'', Perkins starred in ''[[Five Miles to Midnight]]'' (1962), marking his second collaboration with [[Sophia Loren]]. Perkins reportedly agreed to join the project only after Loren was cast in place of [[Jeanne Moreau]].{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=235}} Behind-the-scenes footage from the production was featured in the documentary ''The World of Sophia Loren'', which captured moments of camaraderie between Perkins and Loren, including rehearsals and off-camera interactions.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=236}}{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=237}} The film achieved moderate commercial success.

[[File:Anthony-Perkins-Orson-Welles-The-Trial-Set.jpg|thumb|Perkins (right) with Orson Welles on the set of ''The Trial'' (1962)]]
Perkins continued his work in psychologically complex roles with his performance in Orson Welles's adaptation of ''[[The Trial]]'' (1962). Welles personally selected Perkins for the lead role and expressed interest in only proceeding with the film if Perkins agreed to participate. According to Perkins, Welles told him, "if I wasn't going to make it, he wasn't going to make it either".{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=240}}

Although ''The Trial'' has often been compared to ''Psycho'', Perkins did not express concern about potential typecasting, particularly given the opportunity to work with Welles. He described Welles as confident in his abilities but not authoritarian, saying, "He's wonderfully sure of himself and his ability without being dictatorial and autocratic about it ... [H]e isn't inflexible".{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=240}} During production, which exceeded its budget, Perkins maintained a high regard for Welles and even considered writing a book about the director. He carried a tape recorder in his coat for weeks but ultimately abandoned the project out of concern that it might offend Welles. Welles later expressed disappointment that Perkins did not follow through, stating, "Oh, why didn't you [do it]? Why didn't you? I would have loved it!"{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|pp=241–242}}

Welles later spoke positively of Perkins, acknowledging the critical reception of the actor's performance and taking responsibility for it. He remarked, "Perkins got very bad press, all over the world, and the entire blame for that is mine, because he is a superlative actor and he played the character that I saw as K... I recognize that I did Tony—who is one of the best actors we have—a great disservice".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbUe-bM6bXg&feature=youtu.be|title=Filming 'The Trial' (1981)|date=October 10, 2012|via=YouTube|access-date=January 23, 2022|archive-date=January 23, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220123182129/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbUe-bM6bXg&feature=youtu.be|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite the mixed reception of Perkins's performance, ''The Trial'' received favorable reviews internationally and developed a [[cult following]]. Welles himself stated shortly after its release, "The Trial is the best film I have ever made".<ref name="BBC">{{cite web |url=http://www.wellesnet.com/trial%20bbc%20interview.htm |title=Orson Welles on THE TRIAL |first=Huw |last=Wheldon |publisher=BBC |year=1962 |via=Wellesnet |access-date=March 6, 2010 |archive-date=November 17, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117061211/http://www.wellesnet.com/trial%20bbc%20interview.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> It marked the beginning of four collaborations between Welles and Perkins.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=239}}

[[File:APerkinsBBardotPublicity.jpg|thumb|left|Perkins embracing Brigitte Bardot in a publicity still for ''Une ravissante idiote'']]

Perkins's final role portraying a psychologically disturbed character in a romantic film was in ''[[Le glaive et la balance]]'' (1963), filmed in France. The film had limited impact upon release.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=243}} His subsequent project was ''[[Une ravissante idiote]]'' (1964), co-starring [[Brigitte Bardot]]. Perkins became the first American actor to portray a romantic partner opposite Bardot.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=250}} In later interviews, he expressed discomfort during the production and stated that Bardot had been his least favorite co-star.<ref name="Hadleigh 1996"/>{{Sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=251}}

Following ''Une ravissante idiote'', Perkins filmed ''[[The Fool Killer]]'' (1965) in Mexico.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=249}} While the film received some critical recognition, it was not a major box office success.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.knoxtntoday.com/the-summer-anthony-perkins-came-to-concord/|title=The Summer Anthony Perkins Came to Concord|last=Smith|first=Mona B.|website=Knox TN Today|date=June 2, 2020|access-date=January 23, 2022|archive-date=December 19, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241219055922/https://www.knoxtntoday.com/the-summer-anthony-perkins-came-to-concord/|url-status=live}}</ref> He then returned to France to make a cameo appearance in ''[[Is Paris Burning? (film)|Is Paris Burning?]]'' (1966). This marked his second collaboration with Orson Welles and also reunited him with director [[René Clément]], who had directed Perkins in ''This Angry Age'' (1957). The screenplay for ''Is Paris Burning?'' was written by Perkins's friend, [[Gore Vidal]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0060814/fullcredits?ref_=tt_ov_st_sm|title=Is Paris Burning? (1966): Full Cast and Crew|publisher=IMDb|access-date=January 23, 2022|archive-date=April 22, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230422194835/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0060814/fullcredits?ref_=tt_ov_st_sm|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== Return to the United States ====
[[File:Evening Primrose Anthony Perkins Charmian Carr 1966 redone.jpg|thumb|Perkins with [[Charmian Carr]] in ''[[Evening Primrose (musical)|Evening Primrose]]'', 1966]]

While still living in France in 1966, Stephen Sondheim composed the musical ''[[Evening Primrose (ABC Stage 67)|Evening Primrose]]'' for the television series ''[[ABC Stage 67]]'', Perkins playing the lead role.<ref name="Evening Primrose">{{Cite web|url=https://sites.google.com/site/cultoddities/home/television/evening-primrose|title=Evening Primrose|website=Cult Oddities|access-date=January 10, 2022|archive-date=December 19, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241219045001/https://sites.google.com/site/cultoddities/home/television/evening-primrose|url-status=live}}</ref>{{Primary source inline|date=July 2025}}{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=259}} Around the same time, he announced Perkins as the original lead for ''[[Company (musical)|Company]]'', though Perkins ultimately withdrew from that project. Nevertheless, Perkins continued to serve as an artistic inspiration for Sondheim for several years.<ref name="Evening Primrose"/>{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=288}}

Perkins returned to the Broadway stage in ''[[The Star-Spangled Girl]]'' (1966–67). He played a politically radical roommate competing for the affection of a young woman, a departure from his earlier portrayals of psychologically disturbed characters. His co-stars included [[Connie Stevens]]. While the actors were recognized for their performances, the play received mixed reviews overall.<ref>{{cite web| url= https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/91294/star-spangled-girl#notes| title= ''The Star-Spangled Girl'' Notes| website= Turner Classic Movies| access-date= October 18, 2017| archive-date= November 7, 2024| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20241107005320/https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/91294/star-spangled-girl#notes| url-status= live}}</ref> Simon later reflected on the work, noting that it lacked the strength of his other comedies and stating, "I knew it never had a chance to be a powerful comedy".<ref>{{cite news| last= Funke| first= Lewis| title= News of the Rialto Simon Says, 'I've Learned'| work= The New York Times| date= January 1, 1967| page= 57}}</ref>

Shortly afterward, Perkins returned to France and starred in ''[[The Champagne Murders]]'' (1967).{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=232}} Although the film received some critical acclaim, including a favorable review from ''The New York Times'', it did not perform notably at the box office.<ref>{{cite news|author=Canby, Vincent|author-link=Vincent Canby|date=April 24, 1968|title=Screen: Lucille Ball and Fonda Star in a Comedy|page=53|work=The New York Times}}</ref>{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=233}}

In 1968, Perkins made his first Hollywood film since ''Psycho'', starring in ''[[Pretty Poison (film)|Pretty Poison]]'' alongside [[Tuesday Weld]]. In the film, he played Dennis Pitt, a man on parole from a psychiatric institution. Perkins and Weld had previously dated in the early 1960s, and though their on-set interactions were reportedly cool, they remained professional.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=297}} While ''Pretty Poison'' was not commercially successful at the time of release—Weld later referred to it as her least favorite film—<ref name="tues">{{cite news|title=Tuesday's got her dukes up: Watch out, Tuesday's got her dukes up|author=Reed, Rex|work=Chicago Tribune|date=October 31, 1971|page=r7}}</ref>it later developed a cult following.<ref name="perkins">{{cite news|title=A PERSONAL REVOLUTION: Anthony Perkins Trying to Mature Boyish Image |author=Thomas, Kevin|work=Los Angeles Times|date=December 20, 1967|page=c1}}</ref>

===1970s===

==== Shift to supporting roles ====
In the early 1970s, Perkins transitioned into supporting roles in major Hollywood productions. He appeared in ''[[Catch-22 (film)|Catch-22]]'' (1970) and had a minor part in ''[[WUSA (film)|WUSA]]'' (1970). That same year, he directed and acted in the Off-Broadway production ''[[Steambath (play)|Steambath]]''.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=290}}

Perkins also starred in the made-for-television thriller ''[[How Awful About Allan]]'' (1970), again portraying a psychologically unstable character. Though it received little attention upon release, the film later gained a small cult audience after entering the [[public domain]], which increased its accessibility.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=294}} He next appeared in the French crime drama ''[[Someone Behind the Door]]'' (1971). Perkins once more played a mentally unstable character, and the film had limited impact.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=298}}

[[File:Anthony Perkins Paul Newman Judge Roy Bean.jpg|thumb|Perkins (left) with Paul Newman (right) in ''The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean'' (1972)]]
In 1971, Perkins starred in ''[[Ten Days' Wonder (film)|Ten Days' Wonder]]'', a murder mystery directed by [[Claude Chabrol]], marking his third collaboration with Orson Welles. The film featured a recurring narrative motif in Perkins's career: his character becomes romantically involved with a stepmother, as in ''Desire Under the Elms'' (1958) and ''Phaedra'' (1962).

Perkins reunited with Tuesday Weld in ''[[Play It as It Lays (film)|Play It as It Lays]]'' (1972). The ''[[Chicago Sun-Times]]'' praised the film for its writing, direction, and casting, noting that Weld and Perkins brought emotional depth to their characters.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/play-it-as-it-lays-1973|title=Play It as It Lays movie review (1973) &#124; Roger Ebert|first=Roger|last=Ebert|website=rogerebert.com/|access-date=February 16, 2024|archive-date=July 30, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190730025129/https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/play-it-as-it-lays-1973|url-status=live}}</ref> Weld won a [[Golden Globe]] for her performance, and both she and Perkins were considered potential contenders for Academy Award nominations, though neither received one. Perkins later referred to his performance in the film as his best.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=304}}

Later in 1972, Perkins appeared in ''[[The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean]]'', a Western starring [[Paul Newman]]. Perkins played a traveling minister who aligns himself with Newman's character. The film marked his second appearance with Newman and his only on-screen collaboration with actor Tab Hunter. According to Hunter, the two had a brief reunion during filming in Tucson not having seen each other for nearly a decade. Hunter reported that Perkins was ending a long relationship with dancer [[Grover Dale]] and had begun [[conversion therapy]] with psychologist [[Mildred Newman]] in an attempt to become heterosexual.{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=287}} He later stated that during the filming, he had his first heterosexual experience with co-star [[Victoria Principal]].<ref name=People/>

==== Sondheim-Perkins collaborations and unconventional roles ====
[[File:Anthony-Perkins-Stephen-Sondheim.jpg|thumb|left|Perkins (left) with [[Pat Ast]] (center), [[Marisa Berenson]] (right) and Stephen Sondheim (seated), 1973]]
In 1973, Perkins reunited with Stephen Sondheim to co-write ''[[The Last of Sheila]]'', a mystery film directed by [[Herbert Ross]]. The story was inspired by games that Perkins and Sondheim had invented and follows a movie producer who invites a group of wealthy acquaintances on a yacht in an attempt to uncover which of them is responsible for his wife's death. Each guest is assigned a secret based on real-life gossip, forming the basis of a mystery narrative. Some of the characters were modeled after individuals known to Perkins and Sondheim.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XanCQXL6y_M/|title=Last of Sheila (1973) Production Short|date=August 15, 2020|via=YouTube|access-date=January 10, 2022|archive-date=December 19, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241219053651/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XanCQXL6y_M/|url-status=live}}</ref> The film was a commercial success and earned them the [[Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Motion Picture Screenplay]].

A further project was ''The Chorus Girl Murder Case'', announced in 1975. Perkins described it as a mixture of [[Bob Hope]] wartime comedies, ''[[Lady of Burlesque]]'', and elements from Orson Welles's magic shows, structured around a mystery plot similar to ''The Last of Sheila''. Other influences included ''[[They Got Me Covered]]'', ''[[The Ipcress File (film)|The Ipcress File]]'', and ''[[Cloak and Dagger (1946 film)|Cloak and Dagger]]''.<ref>{{Cite news|author=Flatley, Guy|date=December 28, 1975|title=It's Been One of Tony Perkins' Better Years: A Good Year for Tony Perkins|page=O27|work=Los Angeles Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|author=Flatley, Guy|date=February 19, 1978|title=Perkins: Film 'sickie' turns to reel bigamy|page=E23|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref> The project had initially sold in October 1974,<ref>{{Cite news|author=Winer, Linda|date=October 20, 1974|title=Filling blanks in the puzzle of Sondheim", ''Chicago Tribune''|page=E3}}</ref> with [[Michael Bennett (theater)|Michael Bennett]] at one point attached to direct and [[Tommy Tune]] considered for the lead.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=327}} Although the script was reportedly completed by November 1979, the film was never produced.<ref>{{cite news|author=Mann, Roderick|date=November 29, 1979|title=Cool Down on 'Rough Cut'|page=G25|work=Los Angeles Times}}</ref>{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=327}}

In the 1980s, Perkins and Sondheim began a new project titled ''Crime and Variations'', a seven-part television series developed for [[De Passe Jones Entertainment|Motown Productions]]. A 75-page treatment was submitted in October 1984.<ref>{{Cite news|author=Mann, Roderick|date=October 7, 1984|title=TONY PERKINS: THE 'CRIMES' OF HIS HEART|page=X24|work=Los Angeles Times}}</ref> The story was set in New York's socialite world and involved a crime-based puzzle. A separate writer was expected to develop the screenplay. This project also remained unproduced.<ref>{{cite book|last=Zadan|first=Craig|title=Sondheim & Co.|publisher=Harper & Row|year=1986|pages=352–53}}</ref>

In 1974, Perkins appeared in ''[[Murder on the Orient Express (1974 film)|Murder on the Orient Express]]''. The film reunited him with former co-stars Ingrid Bergman (''Goodbye Again'', 1961) and Martin Balsam (''Psycho'', 1960). It was both a critical and commercial success.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=342}} That same year, Perkins co-starred with [[Beau Bridges]] and [[Blythe Danner]] in ''[[Lovin' Molly]]''. The film was relatively well received.<ref>So You Make a Movie-Will the Public Ever See It?: Movies So You Make a Movie -- Will the Public See It? By STEPHEN FARBER. New York Times February 24, 1974: 105.</ref>

Also that year, Perkins assumed the lead role in the Broadway production of ''[[Equus (play)|Equus]]'', replacing [[Anthony Hopkins]]. In this role, he portrayed a psychiatrist, diverging from his previous portrayals of mentally unstable characters. The performance was met with strong critical acclaim.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1975/07/17/archives/stage-perkins-in-equus-shaffer-drama-is-still-magnificent-theater.html|title=Stage: Perkins in 'Equus'|last=Barnes|first=Clive|date=July 17, 1975|work=The New York Times|access-date=October 26, 2017|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=December 19, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241219044128/https://www.nytimes.com/1975/07/17/archives/stage-perkins-in-equus-shaffer-drama-is-still-magnificent-theater.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Also in 1974, he directed the Off-Broadway play ''The Wager'', though it had minimal impact.<ref>''Split Image'', 1996</ref>

In 1975, Perkins appeared in ''[[Mahogany (film)|Mahogany]]'' alongside [[Diana Ross]]. The two developed a close friendship during filming, which reportedly did not interfere with production. Perkins played a fashion photographer, a role that was rewritten shortly before filming to reflect aspects of his ''Psycho'' persona. The character, originally written as explicitly gay, was revised and portrayed with ambiguous, [[queer-coded]] traits.{{Clarify|date=July 2023}}{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=352}} Perkins later expressed dissatisfaction with the film, but ''Mahogany'' performed well commercially.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=353}}

[[File:AnthonyPerkinsSNL.jpg|thumb|Perkins posing for the intro of his ''Saturday Night Live'' episode, 1976]]

In 1976, Perkins hosted an episode of [[Saturday Night Live|''NBC's Saturday Night'']]. During the episode, he parodied his serious public persona, including a comedic sketch titled "Norman Bates's School for Motel Management," in which he reprised his role from ''Psycho''. In his opening monologue, he thanked the audience for seeing "the real Tony Perkins" and later performed in sketches that included roles such as a singing psychiatrist and characters in various horror-themed segments. He also appeared alongside [[The Muppets]] in a segment near the end of the program.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://archive.org/details/saturday-night-live-s-01e-16-anthony-perkins-3-13-1976|title=Saturday Night Live S01E16|date=March 13, 1976 |access-date=January 11, 2022}}</ref>

In 1978, Perkins starred in ''[[Remember My Name (film)|Remember My Name]]'' alongside [[Geraldine Chaplin]]. The film was written and directed by [[Alan Rudolph]] and featured Perkins playing the husband of a character portrayed by his real-life wife, Berry Berenson.<ref>{{cite news |last=Flatley |first=Guy |title=At The Movies |page=64 |newspaper=The New York Times |date=December 16, 1977 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1977/12/16/archives/at-the-movies-tony-perkins-goes-from-callow-troubles-to-more-mature.html |access-date=July 30, 2011 |archive-date=December 21, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241221162301/https://www.nytimes.com/1977/12/16/archives/at-the-movies-tony-perkins-goes-from-callow-troubles-to-more-mature.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The film was described by Rudolph as an updated version of classic melodramas from the mid-20th century.<ref>Rosenbaum, Jonathan. "Remember My Name". ''Film Quarterly''. Vol. 32, no. 3, Spring, 1979</ref> It was well received by critics, with the ''[[San Francisco Chronicle]]'' awarding it four out of five stars and praising the performances of both leads.<ref>LaSalle, Mick. ''Mr. Perkins and the Vicious Stalker''. ''San Francisco Chronicle''. January 13, 1995.</ref>

That same year, Perkins portrayed the husband of [[Mary Tyler Moore]]'s character in ''[[First, You Cry]]'', a made-for-television drama based on journalist [[Betty Rollin]]'s autobiography about her experience with breast cancer.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0077555/fullcredits|title=First, You Cry (1978 TV movie): Full Cast and Crew|publisher=IMDb|access-date=January 23, 2022|archive-date=December 19, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241219051235/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0077555/fullcredits|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title= Harper Collins|url= http://www.harpercollins.com/browseinside/index.aspx?isbn13=9780060956301|access-date= June 15, 2016|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121021031906/http://www.harpercollins.com/browseinside/index.aspx?isbn13=9780060956301|archive-date= October 21, 2012|url-status= dead}}</ref> The film received multiple award nominations, including a [[Golden Globe]] and several [[Primetime Emmy]] nominations.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0077555/awards/?ref_=tt_awd|title=First, You Cry (1978 TV Movie): Awards|publisher=IMDb|access-date=January 23, 2022|archive-date=December 19, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241219064509/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0077555/awards/?ref_=tt_awd|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1979, the film was parodied on ''Saturday Night Live'' in a sketch titled "First He Cries," which was poorly received, generating over 200 phone calls and 300 letters of complaint.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://screenrant.com/snl-skits-aged-poorly/|title=SNL: 10 Skits That Aged Poorly|website=Screenrant|date=April 6, 2020|access-date=January 24, 2022|archive-date=December 19, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241219044542/https://screenrant.com/snl-skits-aged-poorly/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Also in 1978, Perkins played [[Javert]] in a [[Les Misérables (1978 film)|television adaptation]] of ''[[Les Misérables]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0077936/fullcredits|title=Les Misérables (1978 TV Movie): Full Cast and Crew|publisher=IMDb|access-date=January 23, 2022|archive-date=November 27, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241127121845/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0077936/fullcredits|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1979, he appeared in the science fiction film ''[[The Black Hole (1979 film)|The Black Hole]]''.<ref name="Turner Classic Movies">{{Cite web|url=https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/68882/the-black-hole/|title=The Black Hole|website=Turner Classic Movies|access-date=January 24, 2022|archive-date=April 25, 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250425181101/https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/68882/the-black-hole|url-status=live}}</ref> During production, Perkins reunited with crew members from ''Fear Strikes Out'', which had been released more than two decades earlier. Later that year, he returned to the stage with a lead role in ''[[Romantic Comedy (play)|Romantic Comedy]]'', a Broadway play that ran for 396 performances and received favorable reviews.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.playbill.com/production/romantic-comedy-ethel-barrymore-theatre-vault-0000004321|title=Romantic Comedy Broadway|website=Playbill|access-date=January 11, 2022|archive-date=December 29, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211229041314/https://www.playbill.com/production/romantic-comedy-ethel-barrymore-theatre-vault-0000004321|url-status=live}}</ref>

Also in 1979, Perkins appeared in the dark comedy ''[[Winter Kills (film)|Winter Kills]]''. Although it was a box office failure, it later gained a cult following.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Echart |first1=Pablo |last2=Castrillo |first2=Pablo |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/283800760 |title=Towards a narrative definition of the American political thriller film |website=Communication & Society |access-date=January 23, 2022}}</ref>

=== 1980s and 1990s ===
In 1980, Perkins appeared in the action film ''[[North Sea Hijack]]''. He then co-starred in the Canadian thriller ''[[Deadly Companion]]''. The film received limited attention, though Perkins's performance was noted positively in a few reviews.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Mulay |first1=James J. |last2=Curran |first2=Daniel |last3=Wallenfeldt |first3=Jeffrey H. |title=Spies and Sleuths: Mystery, Spy and Suspense Films on Videocassette |date=1988 |publisher=CineBooks |isbn=978-0933997189 |page=30 |url=https://archive.org/details/isbn_9780933997189/page/30/mode/2up |access-date=January 23, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Forshaw |first1=Barry |title=Muddled Negative |journal=[[Starburst (magazine)|Starburst]] |date=August 1984 |issue=72 |page=42 |url=https://archive.org/details/Starburst_Magazine_072_1984-08_Marvel-UK/page/n41/mode/2up |access-date=January 23, 2022}}</ref>{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=383}}[[File:Anthony Perkins (1983).jpg|thumb|right|Perkins in 1983]]

Perkins reprised his role as Norman Bates in ''[[Psycho II (film)|Psycho II]]'' (1983), which was a commercial success. That same year, he was approached by former partner Tab Hunter to appear in ''[[Lust in the Dust]]'', a Western comedy. Perkins declined the role, and it was the last time the two saw each other.{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=322}} Shortly thereafter, Perkins traveled to Australia to star in the mini-series ''[[For the Term of His Natural Life (miniseries)|For the Term  of his Natural Life]]'' (1983), which received strong viewership ratings.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/fact-finders/television/australian-content/in-the-archive/top-mini-series-of-all-time|website=Screen Australia|title=Top Mini series of all time|access-date=January 21, 2022|archive-date=January 21, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220121155609/https://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/fact-finders/television/australian-content/in-the-archive/top-mini-series-of-all-time|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 1984, Perkins appeared in ''[[The Glory Boys]]'', a British television thriller mini-series co-starring [[Rod Steiger]]. According to reports, tensions arose on set between the two actors.{{sfn|Hutchinson|1998|p=151}} Perkins followed this with a lead role in [[Ken Russell]]'s ''[[Crimes of Passion (1984 film)|Crimes of Passion]]'' (1984),<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/person/150440%7C14386/anthony-perkins#biography|title=Biography for Anthony Perkins|website=Turner Classic Movies|access-date=October 26, 2017|archive-date=April 24, 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250424115403/https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/person/150440%7C14386/anthony-perkins#biography|url-status=live}}</ref> a film he felt was compromised in the editing process but that later developed a cult following.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=420}} He then starred in and directed ''[[Psycho III]]'' (1986), earning a [[Saturn Award]] nomination for Best Actor. Despite the recognition, the film was less successful than its predecessors, which led to bouts of diminished self-confidence for Perkins.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=429}}

Following ''Psycho III'', Perkins returned to television with a role in ''[[Napoleon and Josephine: A Love Story]]'' (1987), a mini-series that received two Emmy nominations despite a mixed critical response.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20097503,00.html |title=Picks and Pans Review: Napoleon and Josephine: a Love Story |last=Jarvis |first=Jeff |author-link=Jeff Jarvis |work=People |date=November 9, 1987 |access-date=January 21, 2022 |archive-date=September 26, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150926031052/http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20097503,00.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1987-11-10-ca-20055-story.html |title='Napoleon and Josephine': French History Goes Bust |last=Rosenberg |first=Howard |author-link=Howard Rosenberg |work=Los Angeles Times |date=November 10, 1987 |access-date=January 21, 2022 |archive-date=April 15, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230415234656/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1987-11-10-ca-20055-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.emmys.com/shows/napoleon-and-josephine-love-story |title=Awards & Nominations |publisher=[[Emmys]] |access-date=January 21, 2022 |archive-date=January 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220121155637/https://www.emmys.com/shows/napoleon-and-josephine-love-story |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1988, Perkins received praise for his role in the horror film ''[[Destroyer (1988 film)|Destroyer]]'', which was otherwise deemed a disappointment.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://reelfilm.com/destroyer/|title=Destroyer – Reel Film Reviews|access-date=January 21, 2022|archive-date=December 20, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241220092928/https://reelfilm.com/destroyer/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=May 5, 1988 |author=Richard Harrington |title=Destroyer |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/style/longterm/movies/videos/destroyerrharrington_a0aa80.htm |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] }}</ref> That same year, Perkins directed the comedy ''[[Lucky Stiff]]'', though he did not appear in it. While not commercially successful, the film gained a cult following.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.popmatters.com/gibron051028-2496179327.html|title=Mudlark Movies: Lucky Stiff, PopMatters|date=October 27, 2005|access-date=January 11, 2022|archive-date=December 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241207045914/https://www.popmatters.com/gibron051028-2496179327.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

Perkins continued to work in the horror genre with appearances in ''[[Edge of Sanity (film)|Edge of Sanity]]'' (1989), ''[[Daughter of Darkness (1990 film)|Daughter of Darkness]]'' (1990), and ''[[I'm Dangerous Tonight]]'' (1990). He filmed a pilot for a television series titled ''The Ghost Writer'', in which he played a horror novelist haunted by the ghost of his deceased wife. The pilot was not picked up for series development.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=441}}

He returned once more to the role of Norman Bates in ''[[Psycho IV: The Beginning]]'' (1990), a made-for-cable film. During its production, Perkins learned he was HIV-positive.<ref name="Weinraub">{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1992/09/16/arts/anthony-perkins-s-wife-tells-of-2-years-of-secrecy.html |title=Anthony Perkins's Wife Tells of 2 Years of Secrecy |work=The New York Times |first=Bernard |last=Weinraub |date=September 16, 1992 |access-date=August 22, 2013 |archive-date=June 13, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180613005120/https://www.nytimes.com/1992/09/16/arts/anthony-perkins-s-wife-tells-of-2-years-of-secrecy.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Between 1990 and 1992, he appeared in six television productions, including ''Daughter of Darkness'' and the horror anthology series ''Chillers'' (1990), which he hosted. His final performance was in ''[[In the Deep Woods]]'' (1992), released after his death. These late-career roles continued to reflect his association with the horror genre.<ref name="Charles">{{cite web|last=Charles|first=John|url=https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/person/150440%7C14386/Anthony-Perkins#biography|title=Anthony Perkins (Biography)|website=Turner Classic Movies|access-date=January 21, 2022|archive-date=April 24, 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250424115403/https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/person/150440%7C14386/anthony-perkins#biography|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Missed roles ===
Perkins was offered the lead role in ''Dancing in the Checkered Shade'', a play by [[John Van Druten]]. In a 1956 interview, Perkins stated, "I had little money and was practically set for ''Dancing in the Checkered Shade''. My agents were split in their decisions. New York said I should stay and do the play. Hollywood said I should come out and do [''[[Friendly Persuasion (1956 film)|Friendly Persuasion]]'']. It was like flipping a coin. So I took the picture." ''Dancing in the Checkered Shade'' did not make it to Broadway, while ''Friendly Persuasion'' earned Perkins an Academy Award nomination and brought him increased recognition in Hollywood.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=97}}

Perkins auditioned for the lead roles in ''[[East of Eden (film)|East of Eden]]'' and ''[[Rebel Without a Cause]]'', both of which were awarded to [[James Dean]]. Rumors suggested that Perkins's loss of the ''East of Eden'' role led director [[Elia Kazan]] to cast him as Tom Lee in the Broadway production of ''Tea and Sympathy'', but Kazan publicly denied this.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=76}} Perkins was later cast in ''Friendly Persuasion'' over Dean and replaced Dean posthumously in ''This Angry Age''.[[File:Anthony-Perkins-Drag.png|thumb|Perkins (wearing veil) in drag for ''The Matchmaker'' (1958), despite the fact that Paramount had just forbidden him from doing ''Some Like It Hot'' for its flamboyancy]]Perkins was offered the lead in the film adaptation of [[Harold Robbins]]'s ''[[A Stone for Danny Fisher]]'', but declined the part. The project was ultimately reworked into ''[[King Creole]]'', a musical starring [[Elvis Presley]], with whom Perkins was occasionally compared.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=108}} He was also offered the role of Shell Oil Jr. in the 1959 film ''Some Like It Hot''. Perkins declined the role under pressure from Paramount executives, who reportedly objected to him appearing in drag.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=163}}

Around the time he signed on to ''Psycho'', Perkins was considered for the lead in ''Dooley'', a biographical film written by [[Robert Anderson (playwright)|Robert Anderson]]. Directors [[George Roy Hill]] and [[Joshua Logan]] were interested in the project, but Paramount did not approve the production costs, and Perkins was not permitted to audition.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=229}}

Perkins was seriously considered for the role of Tony in the 1961 film adaptation of ''[[West Side Story (1961 film)|West Side Story]]'', but was again prevented from auditioning by Paramount. Despite not participating in the project, this led to his friendship with lyricist [[Stephen Sondheim]].{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=209}}

Perkins was the original choice of both [[Tennessee Williams]] and director [[Tony Richardson]] for the lead role in the 1963 Broadway revival of ''[[The Milk Train Doesn't Stop Here Anymore]]'', opposite Tallulah Bankhead. Due to a scheduling conflict, Perkins was unable to take the role, and Tab Hunter was cast instead.{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=247}}

He was also cast as Robert, the lead role in Stephen Sondheim's musical ''[[Company (musical)|Company]]'', but declined the part, citing scheduling conflicts and later attributing his decision to anxiety over the long performance commitment. Some commentators also speculated that his decision was influenced by perceptions of the character's queer-coded traits.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=288}}

In 1973, after co-writing the screenplay for ''[[The Last of Sheila]]'' with Sondheim, Perkins was encouraged to play the antagonist, Clinton. Sondheim supported this casting, but Perkins declined, believing the role was too similar to previous parts he had played. The role went to [[James Coburn]].{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=326}}

Perkins later played a horror writer, Anthony Strack, in the television pilot ''The Ghost Writer'', a project he viewed as a potential transition into more comedic roles. However, the pilot was not picked up.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=441}}

In the early 1990s, Perkins agreed to voice the character of Dr. Wolfe, a dentist, in ''[[The Simpsons]]'' episode "[[Last Exit to Springfield]]." He died before the role could be recorded, and the part was ultimately voiced by ''Simpsons'' regular [[Hank Azaria]].<ref name="Jean">{{cite video|people=Jean, Al|year=2004|title=The Simpsons season 4 DVD commentary for the episode 'Last Exit to Springfield'| medium=DVD|publisher=20th Century Fox}}</ref>

==Artistry==
===Influences===
Perkins, having grown up in New York as the son of a theater performer, was heavily influenced by stage actors in the early years of his interest in acting. Slowly, however, his influences shifted, especially with the new wave of Method actors on the [[big screen]]. In 1958, Perkins admitted to ''Holiday'' magazine that the single performance that he believed had impacted his acting the most wasn't off the boards: "The single performance which influenced my own acting the most was [Marlon] Brando's in ''On the Waterfront''{{nbsp}}... That's the direction I want to go as an actor. To convey the maximum with the simplest, barest means."{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=153}} He also mentioned James Dean later on: "Well, I was certainly impressed with the originality of [Dean's] talent. Of course, it was popular at the time of his emergence."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRUnHo7Tzp0|title=The Dick Cavett Show: Anthony Perkins|website=The Dick Cavett Show|access-date=January 19, 2022|archive-date=December 19, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241219052408/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRUnHo7Tzp0|url-status=live}}</ref>

Perkins was a lifelong member of the Actors Studio, an institution both Brando and Dean attended as well, which could have contributed to his interest in the Method. Perkins's posthumous biographer, Charles Winecoff, though, dismisses any ideas that Perkins was a Method actor: "Young Perkins fell somewhere in between the mannered style of his father's era and the new, seemingly organic style exemplified by Brando and Dean."{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=153}}

Especially in his early years, Perkins took advice from a host of his costars, a majority of whom were experienced and revered actors in their own right. The most influential of his fellow stars were [[Gary Cooper]] and [[Henry Fonda]].

===Acting style===
Despite his many celebrated performances, Perkins never discussed the method with which he acted. Many said he was somewhere between his father's style of acting (building a character from the outside in) and the Method technique (building a character from the inside out).{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=153}} Recalling how he prepared for his mental breakdown scene in ''Fear Strikes Out'', Norma Moore said he was especially "serious, very intent, very nervous before shooting{{nbsp}}... pacing, not talking to anybody, shaking his hands." The film's director, Robert Mulligan, said that Perkins was "riding on instinct, very giving and very trusting and very brave."{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=125}} A year later, when Perkins played Eugene Gant for Broadway in ''Look Homeward, Angel'', not much had changed. "His approach was a purely pragmatic one," friend George Roy Hill remembered, "he had no theories to get in his way."{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=153}}

There is evidence to suggest that Perkins used previous (sometimes traumatic) experiences to drive his performance. During his debut run on Broadway in ''Tea and Sympathy'', Perkins was allegedly drafted into the army, which he dodged by admitting he was a homosexual. This backfired, leading to harsh mistreatment at the hands of the Selective Service that reportedly scarred him so much he wouldn't speak about it. His boyfriend was there when he returned home, listening to him crying and whimpering. He later said that Perkins incorporated the same whimpering into his performance as Tom Lee in ''Sympathy''.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=93}} Perkins, though, never hinted at this in a rare mention of his technique when speaking about the scene in ''Friendly Persuasion'' when Josh Birdwell decides to enlist:
<blockquote>"That scene started [filming at] about 9:30 in the morning and by 1 o'clock the unions at that time declared that we had to go to lunch, right in the middle of the scene—just before my close-up. And [William Wyler, the director] came to me and said, 'I'm really sorry about this. You're doing a fabulous job and I want you to hold onto this if you possibly can. Why don't you go back to your room and sort of concentrate and reread the script? I'm very very sorry; we'll start again in an hour.' Well, I went to the commissary and had two cheeseburgers and a malted and came back and sat down and started over again. I didn't have the self-consciousness as an actor to find that that would be a difficult thing to do, so since I didn't think it was gonna be difficult, it wasn't{{nbsp}}... Well, youth can do anything."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kOBNlL3jG8|title=Reflections on the Silver Screen|website=AMC|date=March 12, 2015|access-date=January 19, 2022|archive-date=January 20, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220120025414/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kOBNlL3jG8|url-status=live}}</ref></blockquote>

Either way, it worked. Many of Perkins's films distinguished him as a powerful actor of the day, garnering numerous awards and nominations. As ''Turner Classic Movies'' summarized: "A masterful character actor, Perkins' ability to convey mental instability in a fashion that was simultaneously disturbing, affecting, and darkly humorous made him a unique and valuable talent."<ref name="Charles"/>

==Public image==
===Persona===
{{multiple image|perrow=1|total_width=230
 | align  = right
 | image1 = Anthony Perkins Person to Person 1.png
 | alt1   = Anthony Perkins in his West Hollywood apartment during his ''Person to Person'' interview, aired October 18, 1957
 | image2 = Anthony Perkins Person to Person 2.png
 | alt2   = Anthony Perkins in his West Hollywood apartment during his ''Person to Person'' interview, aired October 18, 1957
 | footer = Perkins displaying his trademark body language in a 1957 episode of ''[[Person to Person]]''
}}
Throughout his career, Perkins often played shy, sensitive young men. "He was supposed to be gawky, you know," costar [[Jean Simmons]] recalled, "with the sleeves too short and all that stuff."{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=64}} Former partner [[Tab Hunter]] spoke similarly about Perkins: "Beneath the boyishness, however, there was a lot of tension—not news to anyone who's seen Tony on-screen. The familiar body language wasn't an act. He slouched around with his hands shoved deep in his pockets, and he jiggled his foot unconsciously—a nervous twitch."{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=137}}

Despite his well-documented habits, the authenticity of them has been challenged by some of Perkins's friends and colleagues. [[Alan Sues]], who worked with Perkins on ''Tea and Sympathy'', noted, "You know, if you play that kind of sensitive, I-don't-know-if-I-can-get-through-this sort of thing, people come to you. His approach was that he was suffering, that stuff was going on inside of him, and I don't think it was. His strong suit was knowing how to project an image."{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=82}} Although Hunter expressed similar doubts ("I began to wonder how much of his sheepish appeal was genuine," he wrote in 2005, "and how much was manufactured, used to mask very calculated, methodical intentions"{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=140}}), he did believe overall that Perkins was dealing with a lot of backlash from Paramount over his sexuality, which therefore led him to become as brooding as he was.{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=156}}

However real or fake the mannerisms were, they caught on in the press, which had a field day when Perkins, who didn't know how to drive, was photographed hitchhiking to the set of ''Friendly Persuasion''.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=103}} He was often described as "boyish" by fan magazines,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/photoplayjanjun100macf_12/page/n30/mode/1up|title=Little Boy|website=Photoplay|access-date=January 15, 2022}}</ref> and his odd habits, from the way he dressed<ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/modernscreen51unse/page/n19/mode/1up|title=Tony Answers L.O.P.|website=Modern Screen|date=February 1957 |access-date=January 15, 2022}}</ref> to the meals he ate,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/modernscreen51unse/page/n575/mode/1up|title=Hungry Tony Perkins|website=Modern Screen|date=February 1957 |access-date=January 15, 2022}}</ref> were written about in detail. ''Photoplay'' called Perkins a "barefoot boy with cheek" in a 1957 issue,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/photoplayjanjun100macf_12/page/n494/mode/1up?|title=Barefoot Boy with Cheek?|website=Phoyoplay|access-date=January 15, 2022}}</ref> while later portraying him as an embarrassed singer when they photographed him during recording sessions.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/photoplayjuldec100macf_12/page/n541/mode/1up|title=Going Around in Circles|website=Photoplay|access-date=January 15, 2022}}</ref> Perkins seemingly played into this quirky yet insecure persona, venting to ''McCall's'':
<blockquote>"I'm not really suited to be a movie star. I have no confidence in myself. I'm not interested in money. I'm not good-looking. I have a hunch in my spine. I can't see worth a damn. I have a very small head. I haven't many opinions. I dislike nightclubs—the kind of things that give you easy publicity. I have no string of French girls. I'm not tough. I can't put on a show in public. I'm much too sensitive for Hollywood. I'm an easy target."{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=198}}{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=148}}</blockquote>

He also did so on game shows. As a mystery guest on the popular television program ''[[What's My Line?]]'', in the Australian accent he had used during his most recent film, ''On the Beach'', Perkins responded to a question asking if he was a movie star by saying "The term movie star implies a certain glamor which I believe I lack."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=By3Y1Dfu9wA|title=What's My Line? - Anthony Perkins; Martin Gabel [panel]; Zsa Zsa Gabor [panel] (Jun 14, 1959)|website=What's My Line?|date=March 3, 2014 |access-date=January 19, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0746666/?ref_=ttep_ep23|title=What's My Line? S10E38|publisher=IMDb|access-date=January 19, 2022|archive-date=January 20, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220120003102/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0746666/?ref_=ttep_ep23|url-status=live}}</ref>

Even if some people found Perkins's constant complaining about his self-esteem to be annoying, it did earn him fans in the more prominent gossip columnists. Both [[Louella Parsons]] and [[Hedda Hopper]] were fans of him, feeling an almost maternal instinct for him. "[Hopper] was the biggest Tony Perkins fan in town," Tab Hunter recalled. "She practically declared him her adopted son in print and was eager to publish anything that would bury those rumors about Tony's 'secret friend' [a euphemism for Hunter and their secret relationship often employed by the press]."{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=157}} This also endeared him to Academy Award-winning costume designer Dorothy Jeakins, with whom he worked on ''Friendly Persuasion'' and ''Green Mansions''. "He had a gift for inciting maternal instinct, particularly in mature women."{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=136}}

===Sex symbol and teen idol===
Perkins was relentlessly promoted by Paramount Pictures as a sex symbol and teen idol throughout his career, something Perkins saw as a sacrifice to his serious acting prospects. They forced him through a succession of romantic lead roles, whether they were beside relative unknowns such as Norma Moore and Elaine Aiken or powerhouses such as Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. Although he was briefly depicted in drag in ''The Matchmaker'' with Shirley MacLaine, Perkins's image in these films was largely heterosexualized. Despite his 140-pound stature, Perkins delivered a shirtless performance in both ''Desire Under the Elms'' and ''Green Mansions.'' This compulsive and brash heterosexualization ended up being detrimental to Perkins's career, costing him the leads in both the 1959 film ''[[Some Like It Hot]]''{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=163}} and the 1961 film ''[[West Side Story (1961 film)|West Side Story]]''.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=209}}

Even if the masculinity of Perkins's image was forced, his beauty was not. As friend Gwen Davis remembered, "He was intellectually dazzling, physically beautiful. At twenty-four, he was already Dorian Gray."{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=109}} Costar Joan Fickett spoke similarly of Perkins: "Tony had a quality that was fantastic{{nbsp}}... He was also a beautiful-looking young man."<ref>Winecoff 1996,pg. 96</ref> Even his post-Hollywood friends such as Melina Mercouri agreed: "He was the most intelligent and the most beautiful actor that I played with. He was extremely generous [and gorgeous], a gentleman."{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=231}}

Perkins's popularity as a teen idol was increased by the plentiful stories circulating about his active dating life. Although they ultimately ended up stumped as to how an attractive star such as Perkins could remain a bachelor, Perkins was constantly "losing his heart" to somebody, whether it was Natascia Mangano<ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/photoplayjuldec100macf_12/page/n183/mode/1up|title=Has Tony Lost His Heart?|website=Photoplay|access-date=January 15, 2022}}</ref> or Elaine Aiken.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/modernscreen52unse/page/n656/mode/1up|title=The Day I Discovered My Heart|website=Modern Screen|date=February 1958 |access-date=January 15, 2022}}</ref> Perkins was often claimed to be "infatuated" with many of his leading women, whether they were married or not. Soon, Perkins's dating life became as prominent as his career, something that deeply irritated and annoyed Perkins.

Another source of teenage frenzy around the young actor was his singing career. Although his highest-ranked single in the United States, "Moonlight Swim," peaked in the 20s on the ''Billboard'' charts, his albums were still popular with teenage fans. Many of his songs centered around forbidden romances, something an adoring fan could relate to since they might have seen a potential romance with Perkins, a "movie star," as forbidden. Many of the songs often described the love interest as young, with two ("The Prettiest Girl in School" and "When School Starts Again Next Year") explicitly stating that his "girlfriend" was young enough to still be in school. These singles came out shortly before the release of 1960's ''Tall Story'', where Perkins played a college student, amplifying the teenage frenzy tenfold.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bloody-disgusting.com/editorials/3611783/norman-bates-musical-career-anthony-perkins/|title=More Than Norman Bates: The Musical Career of Anthony Perkins|last=Pajarillo|first=Xanthe|website=Bloody Disgusting|date=April 4, 2020|access-date=January 19, 2022|archive-date=January 20, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220120002358/https://bloody-disgusting.com/editorials/3611783/norman-bates-musical-career-anthony-perkins/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Personal life==
===Marriage===
There are varying accounts regarding how Perkins met his future wife, photographer [[Berry Berenson|Berinthia "Berry" Berenson]], in 1972. Some sources state that they were introduced at a party in Manhattan,<ref name=People/> while others claim their first meeting occurred on the set of the film ''[[Play It as It Lays (film)|Play It as It Lays]]''.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=8}}{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=322}}

[[File:PerkinsBerensonInterview.jpg|thumb|Perkins and [[Berry Berenson]] on the January 1974 cover of Andy Warhol's ''Interview'' magazine]]
Although not initially romantically involved, Perkins and Berenson spent considerable time together during the early 1970s, despite Berenson being engaged to artist [[Richard Bernstein (artist)|Richard Bernstein]] at the time.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=330}} Over time, their relationship developed into a romantic and sexual partnership. According to some accounts, when Berenson informed Bernstein of the change in her feelings, he responded by asserting that Perkins was gay and did not share her romantic interest. Berenson reportedly replied that Perkins was seeing therapist [[Mildred Newman]] and expressed a desire to live as a heterosexual. She ended her engagement to Bernstein that same day.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=330}}

Perkins and Berenson married on August 9, 1973. At the time, Perkins was 41 years old and Berenson was 25 and three months pregnant. Their first son, actor and director [[Oz Perkins]], was born in 1974, followed by their second son, musician [[Elvis Perkins]], in 1976.<ref name=GuardianObituary>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/news/2001/sep/14/guardianobituaries.september11|title=Berry Berenson|work=[[The Guardian]]|first=Amanda|last=Hopkinson|language=en-GB|url-status=live|date=September 14, 2001|access-date=January 30, 2024|archive-date=August 22, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130822011229/http://www.theguardian.com/news/2001/sep/14/guardianobituaries.september11}}</ref>

The marriage came as a surprise to many in Perkins's social and professional circles. Actress Venetia Stevenson later commented that she was shocked by the news, recalling that Perkins had been widely perceived as gay.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=118}} Berenson herself acknowledged that others were skeptical about the union, stating that she was unaware of the implications at the time, despite Perkins having informed her of his sexuality.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=331}} Nevertheless, the couple remained married until Perkins's death in 1992. Berenson died during the 2001 [[September 11 attacks]] when [[American Airlines Flight 11]], on which she was a passenger, was hijacked and crashed into the North Tower of the [[World Trade Center (1973–2001)|World Trade Center]]. All individuals on board were killed.<ref name="GuardianObituary" />

===Sexuality===
Speculation about Perkins's sexuality began early in his career, particularly after his Broadway debut in ''Tea and Sympathy'', in which he portrayed a gay character.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=106}}{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=133}} According to biographer Charles Winecoff, Perkins was connected to a mass expulsion of gay students at Rollins College, where he had been an undergraduate. Winecoff claimed that several of Perkins's friends were arrested on charges related to homosexuality but that Perkins avoided disciplinary action due to his association with a theater professor.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=49}} However, this account is based solely on interviews Winecoff conducted with alumni, and no corroborating evidence has been found.

Perkins reportedly had his first heterosexual experience at the age of 39 with actress [[Victoria Principal]] while filming ''[[The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean]]'' in 1971.<ref name="People" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20119696,00.html |title=Great Factoids |magazine=People |volume=19|issue=23 |date=March 6, 1989 |access-date=March 24, 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150920012637/http://www.people.com/people/article/0%2C%2C20119696%2C00.html |archive-date=September 20, 2015 }}</ref><ref name="Kennedy">{{cite web|last=Kennedy|first=Dana|title=Split Image: The Life of Anthony Perkins|url=https://ew.com/article/1996/09/20/split-image-life-anthony-perkins/amp|magazine=Entertainment Weekly|access-date=February 5, 2017|date=September 20, 1996|archive-date=July 13, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190713131915/https://ew.com/article/1996/09/20/split-image-life-anthony-perkins/amp/|url-status=live}}</ref> At the time, he was undergoing conversion therapy with psychologist [[Mildred Newman]]. In his 2021 biography of director [[Mike Nichols]], Mark Harris wrote that both Perkins and his longtime partner [[Grover Dale]] pursued conversion therapy with the belief that their homosexuality was an obstacle to personal happiness. Harris also noted that Newman and her partner Bernard Berkowitz promoted the view that homosexuality was a form of [[arrested development]].<ref name="Harris 2021">{{cite book|title=Mike Nichols: A Life |first=Mark|last=Harris|isbn=978-0399562242|year=2021|publisher=Penguin Press|location=New York}}</ref>

In a 1999 documentary on Perkins, director [[Sidney Lumet]] recounted a conversation in which Perkins openly identified as homosexual and that Perkins told him he had moved past that phase of his life.<ref name="Biography" /> Accounts from friends, colleagues, and partners have generally characterized Perkins as homosexual rather than bisexual, citing his history of same-sex relationships and limited romantic involvement with women.<ref name="Biography" /><ref name="Tab Hunter Confidential">{{Cite AV media |title=Tab Hunter Confidential |title-link=Tab Hunter Confidential |date=March 15, 2015 |last=Schwarz |first=Jeffrey |author-link=Jeffrey Schwarz |last2=Glaser |first2=Allan |author-link2=Allan Glaser |type=Motion picture}}</ref>{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=110}}{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=118}}{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=159}}{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=207}}{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=275}}{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=324}} Perkins himself suggested in a 1983 interview that his mother sexually abusing him may have influenced his perceptions of women: "She was constantly touching me and caressing me. Not realizing what effect she was having, she would touch me all over, even stroking the inside of my thighs right up to my crotch." This behavior continued on into his adulthood.<ref name="People" />

Some contemporaries, including actor Tab Hunter, suggested that Perkins maintained a carefully constructed public persona. Hunter remarked that Perkins often presented himself in a particular way and that this self-presentation may have diverged from his private identity, adding: "I don’t know for sure what [Perkins] was really like."<ref name="sensesofcinema.com">{{cite web |url=https://www.sensesofcinema.com/2017/feature-articles/interview-tab-hunter/ |title='I Love Vulnerability:' an Interview with Tab Hunter |website=Senses of Cinema |date=April 4, 2000 |access-date=January 14, 2022 |archive-date=January 14, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220114230624/https://www.sensesofcinema.com/2017/feature-articles/interview-tab-hunter/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In a 2024 interview with ''[[People (magazine)|People]]'' magazine, Perkins's son Oz Perkins described growing up with the awareness that his father was a closeted "gay or bisexual man", reflecting on how a lifestyle and identity "different from the mainstream" might have led to Anthony Perkins' need to lead a double life. He stated that their mother, Berry Berenson, shielded him and his brother from this aspect of their father's identity, considering it unsuitable for children. Oz Perkins indicated that while the topic was treated as off-limits during their upbringing, he does not resent his mother's approach. He also said that this family dynamic helped inspire his film ''[[Longlegs]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Smart |first=Jack |date=July 14, 2024 |title=Longlegs Director Explains Movie's Personal Connection to His Dad, Psycho Horror Icon Anthony Perkins (Exclusive) |url=https://people.com/how-longlegs-personal-osgood-perkins-exclusive-8677416 |access-date=March 5, 2025 |website=People |language=en |archive-date=February 2, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250202150502/https://people.com/how-longlegs-personal-osgood-perkins-exclusive-8677416 |url-status=live }}</ref>

====Therapy with Mildred Newman====
In 1971, Perkins ended a seven-year relationship with dancer [[Grover Dale]]. Following the breakup, he sought support from friends [[Paula Prentiss]] and [[Richard Benjamin]], who recommended that he consult psychologist [[Mildred Newman]]. At the time, Newman had gained public attention with her self-help book ''How to Be Your Own Best Friend'', which was becoming a bestseller.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=285}} Perkins began meeting with Newman up to three times a week and occasionally participated in group sessions. He later became one of her most prominent celebrity advocates.

According to biographer Charles Winecoff, Newman's therapeutic approach, centered on the idea of self-acceptance and pursuing personal happiness and success, had a noticeable impact on Perkins.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=288}} In ''How to Be Your Own Best Friend'', Newman had written that while analysts previously believed changing homosexual orientation was unlikely, some had persisted and found that individuals who truly wanted to change had "a very good chance" of doing so.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=300}}

Perkins later described Newman as a peaceful person and "a crusader for a wider road, for choice and limitlessness".{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=302}} However, accounts of their sessions suggest a more complex dynamic. Perkins described emotional reactions during therapy, including crying during exercises in which Newman asked him to imagine heterosexual encounters.<ref name=People/> He also recalled disagreements over her focus on his relationships with women, stating, "She was constantly provoking me about women... We had heated disagreements, knockdown arguments".{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=323}}

Following Perkins's death, composer and friend Stephen Sondheim publicly criticized Newman's therapeutic methods, describing them as "completely unethical and a danger to humanity."<ref name="Harris 2021" />

===Relationships===
According to the posthumous biography ''Split Image'' by Charles Winecoff, Perkins had exclusively same-sex relationships until his late 30s. These included relationships with [[Tab Hunter]],{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=105}} [[Christopher Makos]],{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=275}} [[Grover Dale]],{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=88}} and French songwriter Patrick Loiseau.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.closermag.fr/article/la-mst-de-dave-son-compagnon-raconte-78352|title=La MST de Dave: son compagnon raconte{{nbsp}}...|language=fr|magazine=Closer|date=May 2, 2012|access-date=November 3, 2016|archive-date=March 1, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170301184913/http://www.closermag.fr/article/la-mst-de-dave-son-compagnon-raconte-78352|url-status=live}}</ref>

====Relationship with Tab Hunter, 1955–1959====
Tab Hunter publicly acknowledged his relationship with Perkins in his 2005 autobiography ''Tab Hunter Confidential: The Making of a Movie Star''. According to Hunter, the two met at the [[Chateau Marmont]] in 1956 during the filming of ''[[Friendly Persuasion (1956 film)|Friendly Persuasion]]''.<ref name="Exclusive: Tab Hunter Recounts His">{{cite web|url=https://attitude.co.uk/article/exclusive-tab-hunter-recounts-his-secret-relationship-with-psycho-star-anthony-perkins/18188/|title=Exclusive: Tab Hunter Recounts His Secret Relationship with "Psycho" Star Anthony Perkins|website=The Advocate|date=July 9, 2018|access-date=January 14, 2022|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218200358/https://attitude.co.uk/article/exclusive-tab-hunter-recounts-his-secret-relationship-with-psycho-star-anthony-perkins/18188/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Their relationship lasted four years{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=130}} and included a number of shared experiences, such as a stay in a private villa in Rome in March 1957{{sfn|Hunter|2006|pp=173–175}} and a joint appearance on ''Jukebox Jury'' that May.{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=133}}[[File:Juke Box Jury May 1957.jpg|thumb|Perkins (far left) with [[Tab Hunter]] (far right), with whom he had a relationship]]
Early in their relationship, Perkins informed Hunter that he had been cast by Paramount Pictures in ''Fear Strikes Out'', a role Hunter had previously portrayed on television and had hoped to reprise in a film adaptation.{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=140}} Despite the professional disappointment, Hunter stated that their relationship continued privately as their schedules allowed.{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=155}}

According to Hunter, Paramount Pictures expressed concern over their relationship and its potential impact on Perkins's public image, reportedly leading to tension between Perkins and studio executives.{{explain|reason=I don't even know what "targeted for their romance" is supposed to mean|date=March 2023}} Hunter recalled that these pressures did not immediately affect their personal relationship, which he later described as "a wonderful time in my life".<ref name="sensesofcinema.com" /> However, the relationship ended in 1959, shortly before the production of ''Psycho'', and the two had limited contact afterward.

Hunter and Perkins saw each other only twice after their separation: once in 1971 on the set of ''The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean'', the only film in which they both appeared, and again in 1982, when Hunter visited Perkins to discuss a potential role in ''Lust in the Dust''. Hunter later recalled that he had intended to contact Perkins shortly before his death in 1992 but learned of his passing as he reached for the phone. In later interviews, including for ''The Advocate'' and the 2015 documentary ''Tab Hunter Confidential'', Hunter reflected on the significance of their relationship, describing Perkins as "a special part of my journey" and noting the contrast in their personalities and ambitions.<ref name="Exclusive: Tab Hunter Recounts His" /><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.advocate.com/arts-entertainment/2015/06/18/tab-hunter-tells-all|title=Tab Hunter Tells All|website=The Advocate|date=June 19, 2015|access-date=January 14, 2022|archive-date=January 15, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220115020933/https://www.advocate.com/arts-entertainment/2015/06/18/tab-hunter-tells-all|url-status=live}}</ref>

====Relationship with Grover Dale, 1964–1971====
[[File:Anthony-Perkins-Grover-Dale-Greenwillow-1960.png|thumb|Perkins (center) with lover Grover Dale clinging to his arm in ''Greenwillow'' (1960)]]
Perkins and Grover Dale met during rehearsals for the Frank Loesser musical ''Greenwillow'', in which Perkins played the lead role and Dale served as an ensemble member, dancer, and Perkins's understudy.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=207}} Their relationship began during the production.<ref name="62 YEARS AGO">{{cite web |url=https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid022BhbhgMddh7TEvGrABU9mq6BeUHXBZTiebZT8AS3xf32GkswD7UTRULAYzrZihQEl&id=607237056 |title=62 YEARS AGO. |via=Facebook |date=March 9, 2022 |access-date=November 5, 2022}}</ref> Stanley Simmons, who worked on costumes for the show and lived next door to Perkins in New York, later stated that while Perkins did not openly discuss the relationship, he was involved with Dale. Actor Tony Walton, who also appeared in the production, noted that the relationship was discreet but generally known among colleagues. Reports suggest that rumors of the relationship circulated backstage.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=208}}

According to biographer Charles Winecoff, the two did not live together initially, though Dale has said he moved into Perkins's apartment a few months after their relationship began.<ref name="62 YEARS AGO" />{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=208}} At the time, this apartment was Perkins's only U.S. residence.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=258}}

By the late 1960s, Winecoff described Dale as Perkins's primary partner and noted that the two were frequently seen together in New York City.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=254}} Dale confirmed that they were still in a relationship in 1966.<ref>{{cite podcast |title=Grover Dale |website=PodBean |publisher=Backstage Babble |date=June 4, 2021 |url=https://cbroadwaypodcast.podbean.com/e/62-grover-dale/ |access-date=November 5, 2022 |archive-date=November 5, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221105143225/https://cbroadwaypodcast.podbean.com/e/62-grover-dale/ |url-status=live }}</ref>{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=259}} They were a socially active couple, hosting gatherings attended by figures such as [[Jerome Robbins]] and [[Elaine Stritch]]. Biographical accounts, including Winecoff's, at times characterized their relationship in marital terms.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=266}} Music producer [[Ben Bagley]] recalled Perkins performing a song in a manner that he interpreted as directed toward Dale.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=298}} Photographer [[Christopher Makos]], a former lover of Perkins,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sirisuk |first=J.L. |date=August 3, 2021 |title=In conversation with Chris Makos: the photographer who introduced Andy Warhol to Basquiat and Keith Haring |url=https://hero-magazine.com//article/194640/chris-makos |access-date=August 4, 2025 |website=Hero |language=en |archive-date=August 19, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250819102439/https://hero-magazine.com/article/194640/chris-makos |url-status=live }}</ref> described the relationship as a close bond between "two adult men who probably loved each other very much".{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=275}}

By 1969, at the onset of the modern [[LGBTQ movements in the United States|LGBTQ movement in the United States]], Perkins and Dale were regarded by some as role models among gay professionals seeking more open relationships. Dale is often cited as one of the significant relationships in Perkins's life.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=284}}

===Friendships===

[[File:Anthony-Perkins-Sophia-Loren-Laughing.png|thumb|Perkins with Sophia Loren on the set of ''Five Miles to Midnight'', 1961]]

Throughout his career in Hollywood, Perkins worked with numerous well-known figures, many of whom later spoke positively about him. His relationships with co-stars were often marked by mutual respect and fondness. [[Sophia Loren]], who worked with Perkins on ''Desire Under the Elms'' (1958), was frequently photographed smiling with him during a later reunion in Europe.<ref name="Loren 2014"/>

Actress Elaine Aiken later recalled social outings with Perkins during the filming of ''The Lonely Man''.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=118}}

[[Venetia Stevenson]] described a close friendship with Perkins, saying he often confided in her and stayed over at her home, which was located near the residences of both Perkins and Tab Hunter.{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=139}} Stevenson emphasized the platonic nature of their relationship, attributing their bond to the kind of closeness that can exist between a woman and a gay man.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=121}}

Perkins also maintained strong friendships with male colleagues. On the set of ''Psycho'', he developed a collaborative relationship with director [[Alfred Hitchcock]], who accepted many of Perkins's creative suggestions for the character of Norman Bates. Even after Perkins relocated to France, he remained a regular guest at Hitchcock's dinners.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://filmschoolrejects.com/anthony-perkins-psycho-performance/|title=Anthony Perkins Will Always Frighten Us in "Psycho"|website=Film School Rejects|date=June 25, 2020|access-date=January 14, 2022|archive-date=January 14, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220114204222/https://filmschoolrejects.com/anthony-perkins-psycho-performance/|url-status=live}}</ref> He was also a frequent collaborator of [[Orson Welles]], appearing in four of his projects.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=2}}

Among his most well-known friendships was that with [[Stephen Sondheim]]. Perkins and Sondheim briefly lived together and collaborated professionally, most notably on the 1973 film ''The Last of Sheila'', which they co-wrote. Sondheim later recalled that Perkins shared his sensibilities and that working together on the screenplay was particularly enjoyable.<ref name="auto" /> Although Perkins was reportedly offered leading roles in several of Sondheim's musicals, he declined due to scheduling conflicts.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=288}} Sondheim went on to become the godfather to both of Perkins's children and was present at his final birthday celebration.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=343}}{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=456}}

===Character and interests===
Perkins was often remembered by colleagues and acquaintances as a shy and introspective individual with a charismatic presence. Writer Bruce Jay Friedman, who later worked with Perkins on the production ''Steambath'', described him as "enormously charming" and "very controlled," noting that Perkins often appeared to be processing multiple thoughts simultaneously.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=293}} [[Mary Tyler Moore]], who co-starred with him in the television movie ''First, You Cry'', similarly described him as charming and dedicated to his craft, contrasting her expectation of a sophisticated persona with the more grounded individual she encountered.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=377}}

Former partner Tab Hunter echoed these sentiments, while also acknowledging Perkins's complexity. He characterized Perkins as somewhat guarded and elusive, suggesting that Perkins selectively revealed aspects of himself to others. Despite this, Hunter described Perkins as humorous, intelligent, and deeply private, noting that he had few close confidants and maintained an enigmatic presence even among friends.<ref name="Tab Hunter Confidential"/><ref name="sensesofcinema.com" />

Perkins's reserved nature was evident in his preference for solitary pursuits. From an early age, he was an avid reader with a particular interest in science fiction.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0671713/|title=Carol Burnett vs. Anthony Perkins (S2E50)|publisher=IMDb|access-date=January 25, 2022|archive-date=January 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220125174701/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0671713/|url-status=live}}</ref> This interest in reading paralleled a lifelong engagement with writing. While attending the Browne & Nichols School, he served as co-literary editor of the student newspaper ''The Spectator''.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=35}} His interest in writing culminated in the co-authorship of the screenplay for ''The Last of Sheila'' with Stephen Sondheim, his only screenwriting credit. Reflecting on the experience, Perkins once remarked that acting came naturally to him, while writing was more challenging and required sustained effort.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=37}}

Despite his introversion, Perkins enjoyed social and recreational activities. He was an avid Scrabble player and frequently played the game with friends, including early romantic partners. He was also a fan of ''[[The Ed Sullivan Show]]'', on which he eventually appeared.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=90}} Perkins's enthusiasm for games extended to appearances on television game shows such as ''[[What's My Line?]]'' and ''[[Password (American game show)|Password]]''.

Tab Hunter recalled various leisure activities the two shared, including receiving a deluxe ping-pong table from Perkins as a Christmas gift and playing matches together.{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=138}} While Perkins did not have a strong interest in athletics, he occasionally joined Hunter at horse shows or on trips to [[Lake Arrowhead, California|Lake Arrowhead]], preferring activities that highlighted his intellectual and comedic sensibilities.{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=137}}

===Political views===
[[File:AnthonyPerkinsSelma.png|thumb|Perkins (back, far right) with [[Harry Belafonte]] (far left), [[Martin Luther King Jr.]] (center), and [[Coretta Scott King]] (front, far right), during a 1965 [[Selma march]]]]
Perkins was a supporter of the [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democratic Party]] and aligned himself with various progressive causes, including civil rights and [[feminism]].<ref name="Hadleigh 1996" /> In 1965, he participated in the [[Selma to Montgomery marches]] advocating for African American voting rights. He performed at the "Stars for Freedom" rally, where he entertained marchers by singing folk songs and delivering short remarks.<ref>{{cite book|last=Belafonte|first=Harry|title=My Song: a Memoir|publisher=Borzoi Books|date=2011|isbn=978-0-307-27226-3|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/mysongmemoir00bela}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/1965/04/10/letter-from-selma|title=Letter from Selma|magazine=The New Yorker|access-date=January 14, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/social-activist-recalls-selma-march-170052650.html|title=Social Activist Recalls Selma March with Martin Luther King Jr.|publisher=Yahoo! Finance|date=January 20, 2015|access-date=January 14, 2022|archive-date=January 14, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220114160801/https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/social-activist-recalls-selma-march-170052650.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://uwpressblog.com/2015/02/05/stars-for-selma/|title=Stars for Selma|website=University of Washington Press Blog|date=February 5, 2015 |access-date=January 14, 2022}}</ref>

He was also an advocate for gender equality and expressed support for feminist ideals. In 1983, Perkins stated, "Women's liberation has liberated me too".<ref name="People" /><ref>{{cite web |title=Anthony Perkins: Quotes |url=https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000578/bio?ref_=nm_dyk_qt_sm#quotes |access-date=January 23, 2022 |publisher=IMDb |archive-date=January 23, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220123155551/https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000578/bio?ref_=nm_dyk_qt_sm#quotes |url-status=live }}</ref> He spoke in favor of shared parental responsibilities, asserting that men should be involved in nurturing roles such as feeding and changing diapers, without seeking special recognition for doing so.<ref name="People" />

Though he remained largely private about his own sexuality during his lifetime, Perkins occasionally voiced support for gay rights. In an interview with author [[Boze Hadleigh]], he described the notion that marriage should be exclusively between a man and a woman as "archaic," and noted that the ability to raise children was not limited to heterosexual couples.<ref name="Hadleigh 1996"/>

In addition to his advocacy, Perkins supported causes related to HIV/AIDS. Before his own diagnosis, he volunteered with [[Project Angel Food]], a nonprofit organization that delivers meals to individuals affected by HIV and AIDS.{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=347}} In September 1986, he also appeared in a public service announcement encouraging the public to "fight AIDS with the facts".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmfbBTmtVmo|title=Anthony Perkins has Died|website=Entertainment Tonight|date=April 3, 2016|access-date=January 18, 2022|archive-date=January 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220119023001/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmfbBTmtVmo|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Religion===
Perkins identified as an [[atheist]] throughout his life, though he celebrated holidays such as Christmas in a secular, non-religious context.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=58}}

Perkins rarely spoke publicly about religion. When he did express personal views, they often related to the intersection of religion and social issues. In the interview with Boze Hadleigh, Perkins criticized the use of religion to oppose same-sex marriage, remarking, "Common sense isn't really that common, particularly when religion enters the picture".<ref name="Hadleigh 1996"/>

==Death==
During the filming of ''[[Psycho IV: The Beginning]]'', Perkins was undergoing treatment for [[facial palsy]]. He was tested for HIV after an article in the ''National Enquirer'', a tabloid newspaper, said he was [[HIV-positive people|HIV-positive]]. Berenson said Perkins had not been tested for HIV but had been given a series of blood tests in Los Angeles for the palsy on the side of his face. Berenson said she assumed that someone had tested his blood for the virus and leaked the results to the tabloid.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Weinraub |first=Bernard |date=September 16, 1992 |title=Anthony Perkins's Wife Tells of 2 Years of Secrecy |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1992/09/16/arts/anthony-perkins-s-wife-tells-of-2-years-of-secrecy.html |access-date=July 3, 2022 |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=June 13, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180613005120/https://www.nytimes.com/1992/09/16/arts/anthony-perkins-s-wife-tells-of-2-years-of-secrecy.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

Perkins hid his AIDS diagnosis from the public for two years, going in and out of hospitals under assumed names. During this time, his wife and children were regularly tested. It was not until a few weeks before his death that he went public with his condition, although he had been working on films during his illness. He died at his Los Angeles home on September 12, 1992, from AIDS-related<ref>{{cite web|url=http://people.com/archive/one-final-mystery-vol-38-no-13/|title=One Final Mystery|website=People|first=Mark|last=Goodman|version=Vol. 38, No. 13|date=September 28, 1992|access-date=August 22, 2013|archive-date=September 19, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230919061300/https://people.com/archive/one-final-mystery-vol-38-no-13/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Weinraub"/><ref name="Ferrell">{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1992-09-13-mn-1407-story.html|title=Anthony Perkins, 60, Dies; Star of 'Psycho' Had AIDS|work=Los Angeles Times|first=David|last=Ferrell|date=September 13, 1992|access-date=August 22, 2013|archive-date=December 13, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171213144621/http://articles.latimes.com/1992-09-13/news/mn-1407_1_anthony-perkins|url-status=live}}</ref> pneumonia, at age 60.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/anthony-perkins/bio/140397|title=Anthony Perkins|website=TV Guide|access-date=August 22, 2013|archive-date=August 27, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827162119/https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/anthony-perkins/bio/140397/|url-status=live}}</ref> In a statement prepared before his death, Perkins said, "I chose not to go public about [having AIDS] because, to misquote ''[[Casablanca (film)|Casablanca]]'', 'I'm not much good at being noble,' but it doesn't take much to see that the problems of one old actor don't amount to a hill of beans in this crazy world. I have learned more about love, selflessness and human understanding from the people I have met in this great adventure in the world of AIDS than I ever did in the cutthroat, competitive world in which I spent my life."<ref name="Ferrell"/>

His urn, inscribed "Don't Fence Me In", is in an altar on the terrace of his former home in the Hollywood Hills.<ref>Wilson, Scott. ''Resting Places: The Burial Sites of More Than 14,000 Famous Persons'', 3d ed.: 2 (Kindle Locations 36782-36783). McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers. Kindle Edition.</ref>

==Legacy==
[[File:AnthonyPerkinsWalkofFame.jpg|thumb|Perkins's star on the Walk of Fame for Motion Pictures, located at 6821 Hollywood Blvd.]]
Perkins is considered a cultural icon and an influential figure in film because of his long career, most notably his defining role as [[Norman Bates]] in ''Psycho''. Countless references, spoofs, and documentaries have been made about the thriller and his homicidal character, and it has led many to pronounce the motion picture as the greatest horror film of all time.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2010/oct/22/psycho-horror-hitchcock|title=Psycho: the best horror movie of all time|website=The Guardian|date=October 22, 2010|access-date=January 11, 2022|archive-date=August 14, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140814211405/http://www.theguardian.com/film/2010/oct/22/psycho-horror-hitchcock|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://variety.com/2020/film/columns/psycho-60th-anniversary-alfred-hitchcock-norman-bates-1234636252/|title=Psycho Turns 60: the Scariest Thing About Hitchcock's Masterpiece is its Humanity|website=Variety|date=June 16, 2020|access-date=January 11, 2022|archive-date=January 13, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220113093007/https://variety.com/2020/film/columns/psycho-60th-anniversary-alfred-hitchcock-norman-bates-1234636252/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/guide/best-horror-movies-of-all-time/|title=200 Best Horror Movies of All Time|website=Rotten Tomatoes|access-date=January 11, 2022|archive-date=December 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241225043832/https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/guide/best-horror-movies-of-all-time/|url-status=live}}</ref> AFI named Norman Bates the second greatest villain of all time, beaten only by [[Hannibal Lecter]] from ''[[The Silence of the Lambs (film)|The Silence of the Lambs]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.afi.com/afis-100-years-100-heroes-villians/|title=AFI's 100 Years{{nbsp}}... 100 Heroes & Villains|website=AFI|access-date=January 22, 2022|archive-date=May 7, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070507035737/http://www.afi.com/tvevents/100years/handv.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref>

The character of Norman Bates has been referenced numerous times in both music and film. As early as 1964, just four years after the release of ''Psycho'', [[Bob Dylan]] referenced the film extensively on his track "[[Motorpsycho Nightmare]]," a humorous tale about a traveling salesman. Perkins is even mentioned by name:
{{poemquote|1=
There stood Rita
Lookin' just like Tony Perkins
She said "Would you like to take a shower?
I'll show you up to the door"
I said, "Oh, no! no!
I've been through this movie before"<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bobdylan.com/songs/motorpsycho-nightmare/|title=Motorpsycho Nightmare|website=bobdylan.com|access-date=January 22, 2022|archive-date=January 22, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122194735/https://www.bobdylan.com/songs/motorpsycho-nightmare/|url-status=live}}</ref>
}}

Even after the immediate release of ''Psycho'', its influence remained prominent. In 1977, [[Blondie (band)|Blondie]] referenced Norman Bates on their track "[[Kidnapper (song)|Kidnapper]]": "Hey, you've got an unnerving face/And twitchin' eyes like Norman Bates."<ref>{{cite web |title=Kidnapper |url=https://genius.com/Blondie-kidnapper-lyrics |access-date=January 22, 2022 |website=Genius |archive-date=January 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122200905/https://genius.com/Blondie-kidnapper-lyrics |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1981, English band [[Landscape (band)|Landscape]] released the song "Norman Bates" with the chorus "My name is Norman Bates; I'm just a normal guy." In 1999, [[Eminem]] referenced Bates on "[[Role Model (song)|Role Model]]": "I'm 'bout as normal as Norman Bates with deformative traits/...{{nbsp}}Mother, are you there? I love you/I never meant to hit you over the head with that shovel (That shovel)."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://genius.com/Eminem-role-model-lyrics|title=Role Model|website=Genius|access-date=January 22, 2022|archive-date=January 22, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122194605/https://genius.com/Eminem-role-model-lyrics|url-status=live}}</ref> Five years later, [[Kanye West]] paid homage to Perkins's homicidal character on "[[Gossip Files]]": "Uh, they are the dream (Killer Norman Bates)."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://genius.com/Kanye-west-gossip-files-lyrics|title=Gosip Files|website=Genius|access-date=January 22, 2022|archive-date=January 22, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122194603/https://genius.com/Kanye-west-gossip-files-lyrics|url-status=live}}</ref> Even fifty-five years after the film's release, [[Lil Wayne]] mentioned the iconic character on "Amazing Amy": "I'm Norman Bates and this bitch ain't normal, our kids gon' be nuts (Not the babies!)."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://genius.com/Lil-wayne-amazing-amy-lyrics|title=Amazing Amy|website=Genius|access-date=January 22, 2022}}</ref> Perkins was mentioned by name in the iconic 1996 film ''[[Scream (1996 film)|Scream]]'', where Billy Loomis, about to kill Sidney Prescott, says, "'We all go a little mad sometimes'–Anthony Perkins, ''Psycho''."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0054215/movieconnections/?ref_=tt_trv_cnn|title=Psycho (1960): Connections|publisher=IMDb|access-date=January 22, 2022|archive-date=January 22, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122194603/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0054215/movieconnections/?ref_=tt_trv_cnn|url-status=live}}</ref> This seemed to only solidify Perkins's icon status in the horror genre.

It was not just ''Psycho'' that was admired. Perkins's first major motion picture, ''Friendly Persuasion'', received an abrupt resurgence in interest after President [[Ronald Reagan]] labeled the film as his favorite. It also served diplomatic purposes: during one of their five [[List of Soviet Union-United States summits#Cold War (1985–1991)|summit meetings]], Reagan gifted the film to Soviet General Secretary [[Mikhail Gorbachev]] because he viewed the film as symbolic of the need to find an alternative to war as a means of resolving differences between peoples. One Quaker commentator stated: "''Friendly Persuasion'' seems to me to come about as close to truth and fairness as I expect to see Hollywood get in a treatment of Quakerism; I recommend it to every Quaker parent, as projecting images their children ought to see and imitate{{nbsp}}... I believe (critics have) woefully misjudged the film, on several counts: its place in American cinema, the characters and their roles, its historicity, and, not least, its value as an expression of the Peace Testimony. Here, for perhaps the only time, I think Ronald Reagan was closer to the truth when he commended the film to Gorbachev because it 'shows not the tragedy of war, but the problems of pacifism, the nobility of patriotism as well as the love of peace.{{'"}}<ref>{{cite web|last=Fager|first=Chuck|title=Filming the Reputation of Truth: Quakers in the Movies|url=http://www.afriendlyletter.com/afl122.html|work=A Friendly Letter|access-date=February 10, 2013|year=1991|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130520133914/http://www.afriendlyletter.com/afl122.html|archive-date=May 20, 2013}}</ref> ''Fear Strikes Out'' also was subjected to similar treatment after it was nominated for the [[American Film Institute]]'s 2008 list in the sports film category.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://connect.afi.com/site/DocServer/10top10.pdf?docID=381&AddInterest=1781 |title=AFI's 10 Top 10 Nominees |format=PDF |access-date=January 23, 2022|url-status=bot: unknown |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716071937/http://connect.afi.com/site/DocServer/10top10.pdf?docID=381&AddInterest=1781 |archive-date=July 16, 2011}}</ref> Even his European films were praised: eight years after Perkins's death, renowned and respected film critic Roger Ebert called ''The Trial'' a masterpiece.<ref name="Ebert">{{cite web|url=https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-trial-1963|date=February 25, 2000|title=The Trial|last=Ebert|first=Roger|work=RogerEbert.com|publisher=Ebert Digital LLC|access-date=July 13, 2018|archive-date=July 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180713232611/https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-trial-1963|url-status=live}}</ref>

Even if they were not distinguished by an award, many of Perkins's films earned cult followings throughout the years. ''The Trial'' was one of them,<ref name="Ebert"/> with some people considering the film even better than ''[[Citizen Kane]]''. ''[[Pretty Poison (film)|Pretty Poison]]'' was another instance, and perhaps the most famous.<ref name="perkins"/> Television appearances such as ''[[Evening Primrose (ABC Stage 67)|Evening Primrose]]'' and ''[[Remember My Name (film)|Remember My Name]]'' also received this treatment, with ''Primrose'' finding a big fan in famous singer [[Michael Jackson]].<ref name="Evening Primrose"/> The same occurred with ''[[The Black Hole (1979 film)|The Black Hole]]''<ref name="Turner Classic Movies"/> and ''[[Crimes of Passion (1984 film)|Crimes of Passion]]''.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=420}}

Perkins has also been considered an icon of the New York actors of [[Hollywood's Golden Age]], often being compared to legendary performers [[Marlon Brando]], [[Montgomery Clift]], and even [[James Dean]], whom he was once set to replace. He became a poster child for neurotic and shy men, many of whom felt outcast in average American society. Other times, he was the model for odd boys with murderous tendencies. Either way, Perkins was always praised for his heartfelt and dedicated performances, as Brando, Clift, and Dean had been.<ref name="Ferrell"/> Generations of actors were inspired by him, as [[Sebastian Stan]] put: "I have a bit of an obsession with the 1950s and all those actors from Montgomery Clift to James Dean and Anthony Perkins. Just that whole era of [[Tennessee Williams]] to [[Elia Kazan]]. The whole idea of New York and the whole thing becomes kind of romantic in your head."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.augustman.com/my/men-of-the-year/men-of-the-year-2016/|title=Men of the Year 2016|website=Augustman|date=December 6, 2016|access-date=January 22, 2022|archive-date=January 23, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220123154535/https://www.augustman.com/my/men-of-the-year/men-of-the-year-2016/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Jane Fonda]] credited Perkins alone with making her comfortable in front of the camera,<ref name="Bosworth 2011"/> and Michael Simkims, who worked with Perkins just months before his death on ''A Demon in My View'', remembered Perkins well for his professionalism and willingness to help anyone–including himself–who was having trouble with a scene.<ref>{{cite web|last=Simkims|first=Michael|url=https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2002/may/15/artsfeatures.theatre|title=An Actor's Life|website=The Guardian|date=May 15, 2002 |access-date=January 23, 2022}}</ref> Established actors admired his abilities, as Maria Cooper Janis remembered about her father, [[Gary Cooper]]: "I know my father adored Tony Perkins. He thought he was one hell of an actor."<ref name="advocate.com"/> After his death, Perkins's art still lingered in Hollywood, especially in the Academy Award-nominated thriller film ''[[Knives Out]]'', which was inspired by ''The Last of Sheila'', according to the film's director-producer [[Rian Johnson]].<ref>{{cite tweet|title=Edit room posters: Knives Out edition... |user=rianjohnson |number=1090746718398820352 |first=Rian |last=Johnson |date=January 31, 2019 |access-date=January 25, 2022}}</ref>

[[File:Anthony-Perkins-Jump-Series.jpg|thumb|left|Anthony Perkins leaping for [[Philippe Halsman]]'s "Jump" series]]
Perkins was a part of [[Philippe Halsman]]'s famous "Jump" series, in which Halsman requested all famous sitters to leap for him under the impression that while people were trained in many other things, no one was ever taught how to jump. Alongside famous Hollywood contemporaries such as [[Eartha Kitt]], [[Audrey Hepburn]], [[Marilyn Monroe]], [[Sammy Davis Jr.]], [[Grace Kelly]], [[Sophia Loren]], and even [[Tab Hunter]], Halsman's photo of a jumping Perkins has been widely reproduced and shared over the years.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.vogue.com/slideshow/philippe-halsman-jump-book-photographs-audrey-hepburn-earhta-kitt|title=Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, and More Perfect Philippe Halsman's Jump Pose|website=Vogue|date=October 14, 2015|access-date=January 22, 2022|archive-date=January 22, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122191346/https://www.vogue.com/slideshow/philippe-halsman-jump-book-photographs-audrey-hepburn-earhta-kitt|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://philippehalsman.com/?image=jumps|title=Jumps|website=philippehalsman.com|access-date=January 22, 2022|archive-date=January 22, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122191348/https://philippehalsman.com/?image=jumps|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.magnumphotos.com/arts-culture/philippe-halsman-jump-book/|title=Philippe Halsman: Jump|website=Magnum Photos|access-date=January 22, 2022}}</ref>

For his work, Perkins received two stars on the [[Hollywood Walk of Fame]]: one for motion pictures (6821 Hollywood Blvd.) and one for television (6801 Hollywood Blvd.).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://walkoffame.com/anthony-perkins/|title=Anthony Perkins|website=Walk of Fame|date=October 25, 2019|access-date=January 14, 2022|archive-date=January 15, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220115062649/https://walkoffame.com/anthony-perkins/|url-status=live}}</ref>

It was not just his professional life that became part of Perkins's legacy. He was outspoken about politically-left causes, making him appealing to liberals. He was recognized by numerous minorities, including the ones he belonged to, as a tireless advocate for the causes he stood for, such as civil rights, feminism, and (even despite his own closeted nature) LGBTQ rights and same-sex marriage.<ref name="Kennedy"/><ref name="Ferrell"/> By the late 1960s, just as the [[Stonewall riots]] hit their stride and gay rights protests began to appear all over the country, Perkins and his lover Grover Dale were seen as role models for gay professionals who wanted to have open relationships.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=284}}

His death from AIDS-related causes also greatly affected how he was remembered. Alongside [[Rock Hudson]], Perkins is considered one of the most significant actors to have died from the disease.<ref name="nytimes.com"/> There were countless tributes to him around the world, pouring in from news stations and average citizens. In New Zealand, Perkins was one of the many famous people honored in their national AIDS remembrance quilt in 1994.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://aidsquilt.org.nz/quilt-blocks/block-12/|title=The New Zealand Quilt Project: World AIDS Day|access-date=January 12, 2021|archive-date=January 26, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210126233908/https://aidsquilt.org.nz/quilt-blocks/block-12/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Although rumors had always persisted, Perkins was not confirmed as gay until a posthumous biography by Charles Winecoff entitled ''Split Image: the Life of Anthony Perkins'' was published in 1996. The book delves deep into Perkins's personal life and his battle with his sexuality while being a poster-child for heterosexual men, something the author claimed deeply tormented him.{{sfn|Winecoff|1996|p=300}} The biography's publication led to Perkins being featured in numerous gay magazines, most notably ''The Advocate''.{{fact|date=January 2024}}

In 2005, former partner Tab Hunter released the memoir ''Tab Hunter Confidential'', in which he publicly came out as a gay man.<ref name="nyt2003/09/09">{{cite news|last=Weinraub|first=Bernard|date=September 9, 2003|title=A Star's Real Life Upstages His Films; Tab Hunter Looks Back on Sadness and Success and Ahead to a Book|newspaper=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2003/09/09/movies/star-s-real-life-upstages-his-films-tab-hunter-looks-back-sadness-success-ahead.html|access-date=March 8, 2016|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=November 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107121023/http://www.nytimes.com/2003/09/09/movies/star-s-real-life-upstages-his-films-tab-hunter-looks-back-sadness-success-ahead.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In the autobiography, he admitted to his relationship with Perkins for the first time after having previously denied it to biographers. He detailed their three- to four-year affair, with its many ups and downs. "We were both drawn to each other because we were both ambitious young actors swimming in the Hollywood fishbowl," Hunter wrote, "where the waters are dark and murky and treacherous, especially if you've got a 'secret.{{'"}}{{sfn|Hunter|2006|p=136}} This returned public interest to Perkins once more, this time as both a cinematic and gay icon.{{fact|date=January 2024}}

Nearly a decade later, Perkins was portrayed by British actor [[James D'Arcy]] in the 2012 biographical drama ''[[Hitchcock (film)|Hitchcock]]'', which starred [[Anthony Hopkins]] as [[Alfred Hitchcock]] and [[Helen Mirren]] as [[Alma Reville]], about the filming of ''Psycho''. His character was featured briefly, with most of the screen time going to [[Scarlett Johansson]], who played [[Janet Leigh]]. His homosexuality was never explicitly mentioned, but it was heavily implied.<ref>{{cite web|last=Gilbey|first=Ryan|url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/feb/01/james-darcy-star-hitchcock|title=James D'Arcy: 'I delivered my first line and Anthony Hopkins burst out laughing'|website=The Guardian|date=February 2013 |access-date=January 18, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xSNfsmKy34|title=Hitchcock: James D'Arcy On Researching His Role As Anthony Perkins|date=February 28, 2013|via=YouTube|access-date=January 18, 2022|archive-date=January 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220119023446/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xSNfsmKy34|url-status=live}}</ref> Three years afterwards, Tab Hunter released the [[Jeffrey Schwarz]]-directed documentary ''[[Tab Hunter Confidential]]'', where he further elaborated on his life as a closeted movie star and surviving show-business. Perkins was a substantial addition in the film, whom Hunter said he had a "wonderful relationship with. I was comfortable with him. I did trust him." He also spoke for the first time about his reaction to Perkins's wife, children, and [[conversion therapy]].<ref name="Tab Hunter Confidential"/> The film was well received by critics, and Perkins's sexuality and relationship with Hunter became a popular story that circulated through newspapers.<ref>{{cite web|last=Nevins|first=Jake|url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2018/jul/10/tab-hunter-how-hollywoods-boy-next-door-became-a-gay-icon|title=Tab Hunter: how Hollywood's boy next door became a gay icon|website=The Guardian|date=July 10, 2018 |access-date=January 22, 2022}}</ref>

A year following ''Tab Hunter Confidential''{{'}}s release, Perkins's son, Oz, released the Netflix-distributed ''[[I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House]]'', a horror film about a caretaker for an elderly woman. [[Paula Prentiss]], who had starred alongside Perkins in ''Catch-22'', was cast because of her association with the late star and was the only option his son had in mind.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.comingsoon.net/horror/features/767749-interview-director-oz-perkins-on-i-am-the-pretty-thing-that-lives-in-the-house#/slide/1|title=Interview: Director Oz Perkins on I Am the Pretty Thing that Lives in the House|website=Coming Soon|date=September 19, 2016|access-date=January 23, 2022|archive-date=January 23, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220123173449/https://www.comingsoon.net/horror/features/767749-interview-director-oz-perkins-on-i-am-the-pretty-thing-that-lives-in-the-house#/slide/1|url-status=live}}</ref> In interviews, Oz discussed how the film was a way to connect with his deceased father and how horror (since Perkins is a horror icon) was the only way to do it.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/73-oz-perkins/id1204949508?i=1000463988636 |title=Oz Perkins - Post Mortem with Mick Garris |website=Podcasts.Apple.com |publisher=Nice Guy Productions |access-date=October 14, 2020 |archive-date=January 23, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220123173451/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/73-oz-perkins/id1204949508?i=1000463988636 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fastcompany.com/40400661/the-blackcoats-daughter-director-oz-perkins-on-why-the-best-scary-movies-are-sad-movies |title='The Blackcoat's Daughter' Director Oz Perkins On Why The Best Scary Movies Are Sad Movies |website=Fast Company |date=March 31, 2017 |access-date=January 23, 2022 |last1=Taroy |first1=Daniel |archive-date=January 23, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220123173453/https://www.fastcompany.com/40400661/the-blackcoats-daughter-director-oz-perkins-on-why-the-best-scary-movies-are-sad-movies |url-status=live }}</ref> The soundtrack for the film was composed by [[Elvis Perkins]], Perkins's second son, and "You Keep Coming Back (Like a Song)" off of Perkins's 1958 ''From My Heart{{nbsp}}...'' album was a central part of the plot. In the film, the characters can also be seen watching ''Friendly Persuasion''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5059406/trivia/?ref_=tt_trv_trv|title=I Am the Pretty Thing that Lives in the House (2016): Trivia|publisher=IMDb|access-date=January 23, 2022|archive-date=January 23, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220123173449/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5059406/trivia/?ref_=tt_trv_trv|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2018, [[Zachary Quinto]] and [[J. J. Abrams]] announced that a new film was in the works. Entitled ''Tab and Tony'' ("hesitantly," as they later reported), the film would follow the Tab Hunter/Anthony Perkins relationship from Hunter's point of view, and was based on both Hunter's documentary and memoir.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.vulture.com/2018/06/j-j-abrams-to-produce-tab-hunter-anthony-perkins-romance.html|title=J.J. Abrams and Zachary Quinto Bring You the Tab Hunter/Anthony Perkins Romance You Now Need|website=Vulture|date=June 6, 2018|access-date=January 11, 2022|archive-date=January 12, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220112031919/https://www.vulture.com/2018/06/j-j-abrams-to-produce-tab-hunter-anthony-perkins-romance.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="hollywoodreporter.com">{{Cite web|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/jj-abrams-zachary-quinto-making-film-tab-hunter-anthony-perkins-1117878/|title=Tab Hunter, Anthony Perkins Forbidden Love Drama in the Works From J.J. Abrams, Zachary Quinto (Exclusive)|website=The Hollywood Reporter|date=June 6, 2018|access-date=January 11, 2022|archive-date=January 12, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220112031919/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/jj-abrams-zachary-quinto-making-film-tab-hunter-anthony-perkins-1117878/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://variety.com/2018/film/news/jj-abrams-zachary-quinto-tab-hunter-anthony-perkins-love-story-1202834923/|title=JJ Abrams, Zachary Quinto Developing Tab Hunter-Anthony Perkins Movie|website=Variety|date=June 6, 2018|access-date=January 11, 2022|archive-date=January 12, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220112031919/https://variety.com/2018/film/news/jj-abrams-zachary-quinto-tab-hunter-anthony-perkins-love-story-1202834923/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://ew.com/movies/2018/06/06/j-j-abrams-zachary-quinto-producing-tab-hunter-anthony-perkins-romance/|title=J.J. Abrams, Zachary Quinto producing Tab Hunter, Anthony Perkins romance film|magazine=Entertainment Weekly|access-date=January 11, 2022}}</ref> Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning writer [[Doug Wright]] was attached to create the screenplay,<ref name="hollywoodreporter.com"/> and even after Hunter's death a month after the announcement, Quinto announced that plans to create the film were still in place.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://variety.com/2018/film/news/zachary-quinto-tab-hunter-death-anthony-perkins-movie-jj-abrams-1202873000/|title=Zachary Quinto on Making Tab Hunter Film After His Death: "I Want to Honor His Legacy"|website=Variety|date=July 13, 2018|access-date=January 11, 2022|archive-date=January 12, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220112031921/https://variety.com/2018/film/news/zachary-quinto-tab-hunter-death-anthony-perkins-movie-jj-abrams-1202873000/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2019, [[Allan Glaser]], Tab Hunter's husband, who was signed onto the film as a producer, made a positive update about the film's progress and stated that [[Andrew Garfield]] was a possible candidate to play Perkins.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.newnownext.com/tab-hunter-anthony-perkins-biopic-tab-and-tony/07/2019/|title=An Update on the Tab Hunter and Anthony Perkins Relationship Biopic|website=NewNowNext|access-date=January 11, 2022|archive-date=January 12, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220112085008/http://www.newnownext.com/tab-hunter-anthony-perkins-biopic-tab-and-tony/07/2019/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Perkins was portrayed by [[Joey Pollari]] in the 2025 crime drama series ''[[Monster: The Ed Gein Story]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Monster: The Ed Gein Story Will Unmask the Origins of Modern Horror in October |url=https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/monster-the-ed-gein-story-release-date-cast-news |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250903152422/https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/monster-the-ed-gein-story-release-date-cast-news |archive-date=September 3, 2025 |access-date=September 6, 2025 |work=Netflix Tudum |language=en |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Filmography==
===Film===
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Year
! Title
! Role
! Notes
|-
| 1953 || ''[[The Actress]]'' || Fred Whitmarsh || Film debut
|-
| 1956 || ''[[Friendly Persuasion (1956 film)|Friendly Persuasion]]'' || Josh Birdwell || [[Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year – Actor|Golden Globe Award for Most Promising Newcomer – Male]]<br>Nominated—[[Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor]]
|-
| rowspan="4" | 1957 || ''[[Fear Strikes Out]]'' || [[Jim Piersall]] ||
|-
| ''[[The Lonely Man]]'' || Riley Wade ||
|-
| ''[[The Tin Star]]'' || Sheriff Ben Owens ||
|-
| ''[[This Angry Age]]'' || Joseph Dufresne || Alternative title: ''The Sea Wall''
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1958 || ''[[Desire Under the Elms (film)|Desire Under the Elms]]'' || Eben Cabot ||
|-
| ''[[The Matchmaker (1958 film)|The Matchmaker]]'' || Cornelius Hackl ||
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1959 || ''[[Green Mansions (film)|Green Mansions]]'' || Abel ||
|-
| ''[[On the Beach (1959 film)|On the Beach]]'' || Lt. Commander Peter Holmes ||
|-
| rowspan="3" | 1960 || ''[[Tall Story]]'' || Ray Blent ||
|-
| ''Hedda Hopper's Hollywood'' || Himself || TV movie
|-
| ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'' || [[Norman Bates]] || International Board of Motion Picture Reviewers Award for Best Actor<br>Online Film and Television Association Award for Best Film Character<br> Nominated—[[Bambi Award]] for Best International Actor<br />Nominated—[[Bravo Otto Award]] for Best Actor (for film's 1961 global release, honored along with ''[[Goodbye Again (1961 film)|Goodbye Again]]'', also 1961)
|-
| 1961 || ''[[Goodbye Again (1961 film)|Goodbye Again]]'' || Philip Van der Besh || French title: ''Aimez-vous Brahms ?'' <br>[[Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actor]]<br>[[David di Donatello for Best Foreign Actor]]<br>Nominated—[[Bambi Award]] for Best International Actor<br />Nominated—[[Bravo Otto Award]] for Best Actor (with ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'', internationally released in 1961)
|-
| rowspan="5" | 1962 || ''[[Phaedra (film)|Phaedra]]'' || Alexis || rowspan="4" | Nominated—[[Bravo Otto Award]] for Best Actor
|-
| ''[[Five Miles to Midnight]]'' || Robert Macklin
|-
| ''[[The Trial (1962 film)|The Trial]]'' || Josef K.
|-
| ''[[Le glaive et la balance]]'' || Johnny Parsons
|-
| ''[[Beach Casanova]]'' || Himself (archive footage - uncredited) || Alternative title: ''I Don Giovanni della Costa Azzurra''
|-
| 1963 || ''Hollywood: The Great Stars'' || Robert Macklin (archive footage - ''[[Five Miles to Midnight]]'') || TV movie
|-
| 1964 || ''[[The Ravishing Idiot]]'' || Harry Compton / Nicholas Maukouline ||
|-
| 1965 || ''[[The Fool Killer]]'' || Milo Bogardus || Alternative title: ''Violent Journey''
|-
| 1966 || ''[[Is Paris Burning? (film)|Is Paris Burning?]]'' || Sgt. Warren ||
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1967 || ''Romy - Portrait eines Gesichts'' || Josef K. (archive footage - ''[[The Trial (1962 film)|The Trial]]'') || TV movie
|-
| ''[[The Champagne Murders]]'' || Christopher Belling ||
|-
| 1968 || ''[[Pretty Poison (film)|Pretty Poison]]'' || Dennis Pitt ||
|-
| 1969 || ''[[King: A Filmed Record... Montgomery to Memphis]]'' || Himself (archive footage) ||
|-
| rowspan="3" | 1970 || ''[[Catch-22 (film)|Catch-22]]'' || [[Chaplain Tappman]] || rowspan="2" | Nominated—[[National Society of Film Critics Award for Best Supporting Actor]]
|-
| ''[[WUSA (film)|WUSA]]'' || Morgan Rainey
|-
| ''[[How Awful About Allan]]'' || Allan Colleigh || TV movie
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1971 || ''[[Someone Behind the Door]]'' || Laurence Jeffries || Alternative title: ''Two Minds for Murder''
|-
| ''[[Ten Days' Wonder (film)|Ten Days' Wonder]]'' || Charles Van Horn ||
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1972 || ''[[Play It as It Lays (film)|Play It as It Lays]]'' || B.Z. Mendenhall ||
|-
| ''[[The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean]]'' || Reverend LaSalle ||
|-
| 1973 || ''[[The Last of Sheila]]'' || {{N/A}} || Co-writer with [[Stephen Sondheim]]<br>[[Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Motion Picture Screenplay]] <small>[Shared with Sondheim]</small>
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1974 || ''[[Lovin' Molly]]'' || Gid Frye ||
|-
| ''[[Murder on the Orient Express (1974 film)|Murder on the Orient Express]]'' || Hector McQueen ||
|-
| 1975 || ''[[Mahogany (film)|Mahogany]]'' || Sean McAvoy ||
|-
| 1976 || ''America at the Movies'' || Josh Birdwell (archive footage - ''[[Friendly Persuasion (1956 film)|Friendly Persuasion]]'') || TV movie
|-
| rowspan="3" | 1978 || ''[[Remember My Name (film)|Remember My Name]]'' || Neil Curry ||
|-
| ''[[First, You Cry]]'' || Arthur Heroz || TV movie
|-
| ''[[Les Misérables (1978 film)|Les Misérables]]'' || [[Javert]] || TV movie
|-
| rowspan="4" | 1979 || ''[[Winter Kills (film)|Winter Kills]]'' || John Cerruti ||
|-
| ''Twice a Woman'' || Alfred Boeken ||
|-
| ''[[The Black Hole (1979 film)|The Black Hole]]'' || Dr. Alex Durant ||
|-
| ''The Horror Show'' || Himself – Host || TV movie
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1980 || ''[[North Sea Hijack]]'' || Lou Kramer || Alternative titles: ''ffolkes'' and ''Assault Force''
|-
| ''[[Deadly Companion]]'' || Lawrence Miles || Alternative title: ''Double Negative''
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1983 || ''[[Adaptations of The Picture of Dorian Gray|The Sins of Dorian Gray]]'' || Henry Lord || TV movie
|-
| ''[[Psycho II (film)|Psycho II]]'' || [[Norman Bates]] ||
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1984 || ''[[Terror in the Aisles]]'' || [[Norman Bates]] (archive footage - ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'') ||
|-
| ''[[Crimes of Passion (1984 film)|Crimes of Passion]]'' || Reverend Peter Shayne ||
|-
| 1985 || ''Hitchcock: il brividio del genio'' || Himself || TV movie
|-
| 1986 || ''[[Psycho III]]'' || [[Norman Bates]] || Also director;<br>Nominated—[[Saturn Award for Best Actor]]
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1988 || ''[[Destroyer (1988 film)|Destroyer]]'' || Robert Edwards ||
|-
| ''[[Lucky Stiff (1988 film)|Lucky Stiff]]'' || {{N/A}} || Director
|-
| 1989 || ''[[Edge of Sanity (film)|Edge of Sanity]]'' || [[Dr. Henry Jekyll]] / [[Jack the Ripper|Jack "The Ripper" Hyde]] ||
|-
| rowspan="5" | 1990 || ''[[Daughter of Darkness (1990 film)|Daughter of Darkness]]'' || Anton / Prince Constantine || TV movie
|-
| ''[[I'm Dangerous Tonight]]'' || Professor Buchanan || TV movie
|-
| ''[[Psycho IV: The Beginning]]'' || [[Norman Bates]] || TV movie
|-
| ''With Orson Welles: Stories of a Life in Film'' || Himself || TV movie
|-
| ''Alfred Hitchcock: The Art of Making Movies'' || Himself || TV movie
|-
| 1991 || ''[[A Demon in My View]]'' || Arthur Johnson ||
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1992 || ''The Naked Target'' || El Mecano ||
|-
| ''[[In the Deep Woods#Film version|In the Deep Woods]]'' || Paul Miller, P.I. || TV movie (final film role; released posthumously)
|-
| 2000 || ''[[The American Nightmare (2000 film)|The American Nightmare]]'' || [[Norman Bates]] (archive footage - ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'') ||
|-
| 2001 || ''[[Boogeymen: The Killer Compilation]]'' || [[Norman Bates]] (archive footage - ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'') ||
|-
| 2005 || ''Filmmakers vs. Tycoons'' || Josef K. (archive footage - ''[[The Trial (1962 film)|The Trial]]'') ||
|-
| 2010 || ''[[The Psycho Legacy]]'' || Himself — [[Norman Bates]] (archive footage - ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'', ''[[Psycho II (film)|Psycho II]]'', ''[[Psycho III]]'', ''[[Psycho IV: The Beginning]]'') ||
|-
| 2014 || ''[[Magician: The Astonishing Life and Work of Orson Welles]]'' || Himself (archive footage) ||
|-
| 2017 || ''[[78/52]]'' || Himself — [[Norman Bates]] (archive footage - ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'') ||
|-
| 2018 || ''[[They'll Love Me When I'm Dead]]'' || Himself (archive footage - uncredited) ||
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2019 || ''Sympathy for the Devil: Revisiting "Psycho II"'' || Himself — [[Norman Bates]] (archive footage - ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'', ''[[Psycho II (film)|Psycho II]]'') ||
|-
| ''Hitchcock Confidential'' || Himself — [[Norman Bates]] (archive footage - ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'') || TV movie
|-
| 2020 || ''Anthony Perkins, l'homme derrière'' || Himself – Subject (archive footage) || TV movie
|-
| 2022 || ''My Name is Alfred Hitchcock'' || Himself — [[Norman Bates]] (archive footage - ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'') ||
|}

===Television===
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Year
! Title
! Role
! Notes
|-
| 1953 || ''[[The Big Story (radio and TV series)|The Big Story]]'' || Ralph Darrow || Episode: "Robert Billeter of the Pendleton Times of Franklin, West Virginia"
|-
| rowspan="5" | 1954 || ''[[Kraft Television Theatre]]'' || || Episode: "The Missing Years"
|-
| ''[[Armstrong Circle Theatre]]'' || Philippe || Episode: "The Fugitive"
|-
| ''[[The Man Behind the Badge]]'' || Pedro || Episode: "The Case of the Square Hipsters, East Baton Rouge, LA. Jr. Sheriff"
|-
| ''[[The Man Behind the Badge]]'' || Pedro || Episode: "The Case of the Narcotics Racket"
|-
| ''[[You Are There (series)|You Are There]]'' || || Episode: "The Surrender of Wake Island"
|-
| 1955 || ''[[Wide Wide World]]'' || Himself || Episode: "America's Heritage"
|-
| rowspan="4" | 1956 || ''[[Kraft Television Theatre]]'' || Willie O'Reilly || Episode: "Home Is the Hero"
|-
| ''[[Studio One (American TV series)|Studio One]]'' || Clyde Smith || Episode: "The Silent Gun"
|-
| ''[[Front Row Center]]'' || Dexter Green || Episode: "Winter Dreams"
|-
| ''[[Goodyear Television Playhouse]]'' || Joey || Episode: "Joey"
|-
| rowspan="8" | 1957 || ''[[General Electric Theater]]'' || West Wind || Episode: "Mr. Blue Ocean"
|-
| ''[[Windows (TV series)|Windows]]'' || Benji || Episode: "The World Out There"
|-
| ''[[The Ed Sullivan Show]]'' || Himself – Guest (as Tony Perkins) || Episode: "Bill Haley & the Comets, Lena Horne, Tony Perkins, Jack Paar, George DeWitt, Alfred Apaka, Senator George Smathers"
|-
| ''[[The Steve Allen Plymouth Show]]'' || Himself – Guest (as Tony Perkins) || Episode: "Anthony Perkins, Broderick Crawford, Joanne Dru, Xavier Cugat & Abbe Lane, Johnny Puleo & his Harmonica Gang, cameo by Killer Joe Piro"
|-
| ''[[Person to Person]]'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "Episode #5.6"
|-
| ''[[The Steve Allen Plymouth Show]]'' || Himself – Guest (as Tony Perkins) || Episode: "Anthony Perkins, Mahalia Jackson, Gertrude Berg, George London, the U.N. Singers"
|-
| ''[[What's My Line?]]'' || Himself – Mystery Guest || Episode: "Jolie Gabor & Anthony Perkins"
|-
| ''Muscular Dystrophy Telethon'' || Himself – Guest || TV special
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1958 || ''[[The Mike Wallace Interview]]'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "Episode #1.48"
|-
| ''[[The Tonight Show Starring Jack Paar]]'' || Himself – Guest ||
Episode: "Episode #1.193"
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1959 || ''[[What's My Line?]]'' || Himself – Mystery Guest || Episode: "Anthony Perkins"
|-
| ''[[What's My Line?]]'' || Himself – Guest Panelist || Episode: "Gary Cooper"
|-
| rowspan="3" | 1960 || ''[[The Tonight Show Starring Jack Paar]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Episode: #3.154"
|-
| ''[[What's My Line?]]'' || Himself – Guest Panelist || Episode: "Jane Wyman"
|-
| ''[[I've Got a Secret]]'' || Himself – Guest Star || Episode: "Anthony Perkins"
|-
| rowspan="3" | 1961 || ''Treffpunkt New York'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "Episode #1.2"
|-
| ''[[What's My Line?]]'' || Himself – Guest Panelist || Episode: "Dorothy Kilgallen"
|-
| ''Reflets de Cannes'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "16 May 1961"
|-
| rowspan="5" | 1962 || ''Cinépanorama'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "3 March 1962"
|-
| ''[[Discorama]]'' || Himself – Guest Performer || Episode: "12 April 1962"
|-
| ''[[Password (American game show)|Password]]'' || Himself – Celebrity Contestant || Episode: "Anthony Perkins vs. Peggy Cass" (evening show)
|-
| ''[[The Merv Griffin Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Anthony Perkins, Carmel Quinn, Henny Youngman, Milt Kamen, Guy Rotondo, Lester Lanin"
|-
| ''The World of Sophia Loren'' || Himself || TV special
|-
| rowspan="5" | 1963 || ''[[Password (American game show)|Password]]'' || Himself – Celebrity Contestant || Episode: "Dina Merrill vs. Anthony Perkins" (evening show)
|-
|''[[What's My Line?]]'' || Himself – Mystery Guest || Episode: "Anthony Perkins"
|-
| ''[[I've Got a Secret]]'' || Himself – Panelist (as Tony Perkins) || Episode: "Ann Sothern"
|-
| ''[[Password (American game show)|Password]]'' || Himself – Celebrity Contestant || Episode: "Olivia de Havilland vs. Anthony Perkins" (evening show)
|-
| ''[[Password (American game show)|Password]]'' || Himself – Celebrity Contestant || Episode:
"Carol Burnett vs. Anthony Perkins" (evening show)
|-
| rowspan="5" | 1964 || ''The New Steve Allen Show'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Anthony Perkins, Dee Stratton"
|-
| ''[[Password (American game show)|Password]]'' || Himself – Celebrity Contestant || Episode: "Paula Prentiss vs. Anthony Perkins" (evening show)
|-
| ''The 21st Annual Golden Globe Awards'' || Himself || TV special
|-
| ''Inside the Movie Kingdom – 1964'' || Himself || TV special
|-
| ''[[What's My Line?]]'' || Himself – Guest Panelist || Episode: "Elizabeth Ashley"
|-
| 1966 || ''[[ABC Stage 67]]'' || Charles Snell || Episode: "[[Evening Primrose (ABC Stage 67)|Evening Primrose]]"
|-
| rowspan="9" | 1967 || ''[[Today (American TV program)|Today]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "2 January 1967"
|-
| ''[[The Mike Douglas Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Episode #6.89"
|-
| ''[[The Merv Griffin Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Anthony Perkins, Lynn Redgrave, Bobby Rydell"
|-
| ''[[Password (American game show)|Password]]'' || Himself – Celebrity Contestant || Episode: "Arlene Francis vs. Anthony Perkins" (evening show)
|-
| ''[[The Merv Griffin Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Tom Ewell, Anthony Perkins, Lionel Hampton, Lotte Lenya"
|-
| ''[[The Merv Griffin Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Clint Eastwood, Anthony Perkins, Marty Brill, Milt Kamen, Kaye Hart, Aliza Kashi"
|-
| ''[[The Merv Griffin Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Jack Douglas and Reiko, Richard Crenna, Renee Taylor, Flip Wilson, Captain Vernon Lowell, Anthony Perkins"
|-
| ''[[The Merv Griffin Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Anthony Perkins, Pat McCormick, Donna Jean Young, Helen Gurley Brown, Arthur Prysock, Ronnie Martin"
|-
| ''[[The Merv Griffin Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Anthony Perkins, Gabriel Dell, Susan Strasberg, Shelley Berman, Aliza Kashi, Barbara B. Baugh, Helen Gurley Brown"
|-
| rowspan="3" | 1968 || ''The Woody Woodbury Show'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "13 March 1964"
|-
| ''Dee Time'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Episode #3.39"
|-
| ''[[BBC Play of the Month]]'' || Tommy Turner || Episode: "The Male Animal"
|-
| rowspan="4" | 1970 || ''[[The Dick Cavett Show]]'' || Himself – Guest ||
Episode: "Episode #4.99"
|-
| ''[[The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "22 July 1970"
|-
| ''[[The David Frost Show]]'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "Episode #2.252"
|-
| ''[[The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "14 September 1970"
|-
| 1972 || ''V.I.P.-Schaukel'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Episode #2.2"
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1973 || ''[[The Dick Cavett Show]]'' || Himself – Guest ||
Episode: "Alexander Bickel/Richard Kuh/Truman Capote/Anthony Perkins/Bishop Paul Moore/Dr. Natalie Shainess/Ephraim London, Part 1"
|-
| ''[[The Dick Cavett Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Alexander Bickel/Richard Kuh/Truman Capote/Anthony Perkins/Bishop Paul Moore/Dr. Natalie Shainess/Ephraim London, Part 2"
|-
| 1974 || ''[[The Mike Douglas Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Episode #13.142"
|-
| rowspan="3" | 1975 || ''The Film Society Of Lincoln Center Annual Gala Tribute to Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward'' || Himself – Speaker || TV special
|-
| ''[[The Mike Douglas Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Episode #14.214"
|-
| ''[[Dinah!]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Episode #2.49"
|-
| rowspan="3" | 1976 || ''[[Saturday Night Live]]'' || Himself – Host / [[Norman Bates]] / Various || Episode: "[[Saturday Night Live season 1|Anthony Perkins/Betty Carter]]" (Season 1, Episode 16)
|-
| ''The Annual Theatre World Awards'' || Himself – Presenter || TV special
|-
| ''[[The Mike Douglas Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Episode #16.36"
|-
| 1977 || ''AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute to Bette '' || Himself – Audience Member || TV special
|-
| 1979 || ''AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute to Alfred Hitchcock'' || Himself || TV special
|-
| rowspan="4" | 1980 || ''[[The Dick Cavett Show]]'' || Himself – Guest ||
Episode: "Anthony Perkins"
|-
| ''[[Dinah!]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Episode #6.85"
|-
| ''34th Annual Tony Awards'' || Himself – Presenter || TV special
|-
| ''[[Hour Magazine (TV series)|Hour Magazine]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "17 December 1980"
|-
| rowspan="3" | 1982 || ''[[Night of 100 Stars]]'' || Himself || TV special
|-
| ''[[Arena (British TV series)|Arena]]'' || Himself || Episode: "The Orson Welles Story: Part 1"
|-
| ''[[Arena (British TV series)|Arena]]'' || Himself || Episode: "The Orson Welles Story: Part 2"
|-
| rowspan="6" | 1983 || ''[[For the Term of His Natural Life (miniseries)|For the Term of His Natural Life]]'' || Reverend James North || TV miniseries, 3 episodes
|-
| ''[[Film '72]]'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "Episode #12.34"
|-
| ''De película'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "En torno a Anthony Perkins"
|-
| ''Bitte umblättern'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "6 June 1983"
|-
| ''One on One'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "Anthony Perkins"
|-
| ''Psycho II: Still Crazy After All These Years'' || Himself – Interviewee || TV short (featurette/documentary)
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1984 || ''[[The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Episode #23.185"
|-
| ''[[The Glory Boys]]'' || Jimmy || TV miniseries, 3 episodes
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1985 || ''[[Great Performances]]'': ''The Best of Broadway'' || Himself – Performer || TV special
|-
| ''[[Entertainment Tonight]]'' || Himself || Episode: "6 September 1985"
|-
| rowspan="12" | 1986 || ''40th Annual Tony Awards'' || Himself – Performer || TV special
|-
|''[[The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "24 June 1986"
|-
| ''[[Hour Magazine (TV series)|Hour Magazine]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "3 July 1986"
|-
| ''[[Late Night with David Letterman]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "7 July 1986"
|-
| ''[[The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "17 July 1986"
|-
| ''Cinéma cinémas'' || Himself || Episode: "Shock Corridor"
|-
| ''El carrer de l'espectacle'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "14 October 1986"
|-
| ''Na sowas!'' || Himself – Guest ||
Episode: "Episode #6.4"
|-
| ''De película'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "Panorama de actualidad VIII"
|-
| ''De película'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "Sitges 86"
|-
| ''Inédits'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "Anthony Perkins"
|-
| ''King Kong! The Living Legend'' || Himself || TV special
|-
| rowspan="4" | 1987 || ''[[The Late Show (1986 talk show)|The Late Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Friday the 13th Horror Show"
|-
|| ''De película'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "Cartelera de TVE VII"
|-
| ''[[The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Episode #26.115"
|-
| ''[[Napoleon and Josephine: A Love Story]]'' || [[Talleyrand]] || TV miniseries, 3 episodes
|-
| 1988 || ''Joan Rivers and Friends Salute Heidi Abromowitz'' || Himself – Anthony Perkins || TV special
|-
| rowspan="4" | 1989 || ''Drevet vend la mèche'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "20 January 1989"
|-
| ''[[The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "Episode #28.49"
|-
|''[[The Arsenio Hall Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "#1.78"
|-
|''[[The Arsenio Hall Show]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "#1.145"
|-
| rowspan="6" | 1990 || ''Chillers'' || Himself – Host || 12 episodes
|-
| ''The Ghost Writer'' || Anthony Strack || Unsold TV pilot
|-
| ''The Grand Opening of Universal Studios New Theme Park Attraction Gala'' || Himself || TV special
|-
| ''The Horror Hall of Fame'' || Himself – Presenter || TV special
|-
| ''[[Late Night with David Letterman]]'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "3 October 1990"
|-
| ''Un dia és un dia'' || Himself – Guest || Episode: "#2.16" (Season 2, Episode 16)
|-
| rowspan="5" | 1991 || ''The Film Society Of Lincoln Center Annual Gala Tribute to Audrey Hepburn'' || Himself – Speaker || TV special
|-
| ''Wetten, das..?'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "Aus Saarbrücken" (Season 11, Episode 69)
|-
| ''Hollymünd'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "23 September 1991"
|-
| ''NDR Talk Show'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "27 September 1991" (Season 13, Episode 11)
|-
| ''Aspekte'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "27 September 1991" (Season 27, Episode 38)
|-
| 1992 || ''Reflections on the Silver Screen'' || Himself – Interviewee || Episode: "Anthony Perkins" (Season 3, Episode 5); final recorded interview (aired posthumously)
|-
| 1994 || ''100 Years at the Movies'' || [[Norman Bates]] (archive footage) || TV short
|-
| 1998 || ''[[E! True Hollywood Story]]'' || Himself – Subject (archive footage) || Episode: "Anthony Perkins"
|-
| 1999 || ''[[Biography (TV series)|Biography]]'' || Himself – Subject (archive footage) || Episode: "Anthony Perkins: A Life in the Shadows"
|-
| 2003 || ''AFI's 100 Years...100 Heroes & Villains'' || [[Norman Bates]] –  No. 2 Villain (archive footage) || TV special
|-
| 2005 || ''Live from New York: The First 5 Years of Saturday Night Live'' || Himself – Host (archive footage) || TV special
|}

=== Stage ===
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Year
! Title
! Role
! Theatre
! Notes
|-
| 1954–55 || ''[[Tea and Sympathy (play)|Tea and Sympathy]]'' || Tom Lee || [[Ethel Barrymore Theatre]], New York City || Broadway (replacement for [[John Kerr (actor)|John Kerr]])
|-
| 1957–59 || ''[[Look Homeward, Angel (play)|Look Homeward, Angel]]'' || Eugene Gant || [[Ethel Barrymore Theatre]], New York City || rowspan="4" | Broadway
|-
| 1960 || ''[[Greenwillow]]'' || Gideon Briggs || [[Alvin Theatre]], New York City
|-
| 1962 || ''Harold'' || Harold Selbar || [[Cort Theatre]], New York City
|-
| 1966–67 || ''[[The Star-Spangled Girl]]'' || Andy Hobart || [[Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre|Plymouth Theatre]], New York City
|-
| 1970 || ''[[Steambath (play)|Steambath]]'' || Tandy || Truck and Warehouse Theater, New York City || Off-Broadway (also director)
|-
| 1974 || ''The Wager'' || {{N/A}} || Eastside Playhouse, New York City || Off-Broadway (director)
|-
| 1975–76 || ''[[Equus (play)|Equus]]'' || Martin Dysart || [[Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre|Plymouth Theatre]], New York City || Broadway (replacement for [[Anthony Hopkins]])
|-
| 1979–80 || ''[[Romantic Comedy (play)|Romantic Comedy]]'' || Jason Carmichael || [[Ethel Barrymore Theatre]], New York City || Broadway
|}

==Discography==
{| class="wikitable sortable"
!Year
!Album
!Label
|-
| 1957 || ''Orchestra Under the Direction of Martin Paich'' || [[Epic Records]]
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1958 || ''On A Rainy Afternoon'' || rowspan="2" | [[RCA Records|RCA Victor]]
|-
| ''From My Heart{{nbsp}}...''
|-
| 1964 || ''Anthony Perkins'' || [[Pathé]]
|}

== See also ==
* [[LGBTQ culture in New York City]]
* [[List of LGBTQ people from New York City]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

===Bibliography===
* {{cite book |last1=Hunter |first1=Tab |title=Tab Hunter Confidential: The Making of a Movie Star |date=September 8, 2006 |publisher=Algonquin Books |isbn=978-1-56512-846-0 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TMOcNOk4MXUC |language=en}}
* {{cite book|last=Hutchinson|first=Tom|title=Rod Steiger: Memoirs of a Friendship|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=f6p4QgAACAAJ|year=1998|publisher=V. Gollancz|isbn=978-0-575-05903-0}}
* {{cite book|last=Winecoff|first=Charles|title=Split Image: The Life of Anthony Perkins|location=New York City|publisher=Dutton|date=1996|isbn=0-525-94064-2|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/splitimagelifeof00winerich}}

==Further reading==
* [[Bergan, Ronald]]: ''Anthony Perkins: A Haunted Life''. London: Little, Brown and Company, 1995; {{ISBN|0-316-90697-2}}.
* [[Johan Hilton|Hilton, Johan]]: ''Monster i garderoben: En bok om Anthony Perkins och tiden som skapade Norm Bates''. Stockholm: Natur & Kultur, 2015; {{ISBN|978-91-271-3430-0}}. {{in lang|sv}}
* Capua, Michelangelo "Anthony Perkins. Prigioniero della Paura." Torino, Lindau, 2003; {{ISBN|978-8867082759}}

==External links==
{{Commons}}
* {{AFI person | 14386-Anthony-Perkins }}
* {{IMDb name|0000578}}
* {{IBDB name}}
* {{iobdb name|20750}}
* {{playbill person}}
* {{TCMDb name}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20101108175255/http://www.hollywoodgothique.com/perkins.html Psycho star Anthony Perkins on playing Norman Bates]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20110527194555/http://www.hrc.utexas.edu/multimedia/video/2008/wallace/perkins_tony.html Anthony Perkins] interviewed by [[Mike Wallace]] on ''The Mike Wallace Interview'' March 22, 1958

{{Navboxes
| title = Awards for Anthony Perkins
| list =
{{Prix d'interprétation masculine 1960–1979}}
{{David di Donatello for Best Foreign Actor}}
{{Donostia Award}}
{{Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year Actor}}
{{Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Motion Picture Screenplay}}
}}

{{Portal bar|Biography|Film|LGBTQ}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Perkins, Anthony}}
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