- He is best known as the voice of the computer, HAL 9000, in Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) and 2010 (1984). Along with Keir Dullea, he is one of only two actors to appear in both films.
- In praising Douglas Rain's contribution to "2001: A Space Odyssey", Stanley Kubrick often said that he would like to direct him again - on-camera this time, but in a non-speaking role. However, they never worked together a second time.
- HAL 9000 is listed as #13 on the American Film Institute's America's Greatest Villians.
- Co-founding member of the Stratford Shakespearean Festival.
- Narrated a 1960 National Film Board of Canada short film called "Universe". An inspired Stanley Kubrick reportedly had seen that film nearly a hundred times and certainly was aware of Rain's abilities when he cast him as the voice of HAL 9000 in 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968).
- Attended the University of Manitoba, worked in radio dramas and studied acting at the Banff School of Fine Arts in Alberta. In 1950, he left for a two-year apprenticeship at the London Old Vic Theatre School.
- Performed in a host of Shakespearean plays at the Stratford Festival in Stratford, Ontario.
- Was nominated for Broadway's 1972 Tony Award as Best Supporting or Featured Actor (Dramatic) for "Vivat! Vivat Regina!".
- Douglas James Rain passed away on November 11, 2018, six months away from what would have been his 91st birthday on May 9, 2019. It was also the day that From Russia Without Love (2018)(#30.6) aired. Will You Take My Hand? (2018)(#1.15) was also the final episode of Star Trek: Discovery (2017) to air before his death.
- Made his Broadway bow in "Tamburlaine the Great" at the Winter Garden Theatre (1956).
- Had one daughter with ex-wife Martha Henry, Emma Rain.
- He also provided the voice of the computer in Sleeper (1973).
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