- He is best known as the voice of the computer, HAL 9000, in Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) and 2010: The Year We Make Contact (1984). Along with Keir Dullea, he is one of only two actors to appear in both films.
- In praising Douglas Rain's contribution to "2001: A Space Odyssey", Stanley Kubrick often said that he would like to direct him again - on-camera this time, but in a non-speaking role. However, they never worked together a second time.
- HAL 9000 is listed as #13 on the American Film Institute's America's Greatest Villains.
- Founding member of the Stratford Shakespearean Festival.
- Narrated a 1960 National Film Board of Canada short film called "Universe". An inspired Stanley Kubrick reportedly had seen that film nearly a hundred times and originally cast Rain to provide narration for the film before ultimately asking him to instead be the voice of HAL 9000 in 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968).
- Performed in a host of Shakespearean plays at the Stratford Festival in Stratford, Ontario.
- Attended the University of Manitoba, worked in radio dramas and studied acting at the Banff School of Fine Arts in Alberta. In 1950, he left for a two-year apprenticeship at the London Old Vic Theatre School.
- He was believed to have provided the voice of the computer in Sleeper (1973). However, the computer in this Woody Allen sci-fi spoof was done by an impersonator. According to Rain's sons - who know his voice well - this is an error. He did not play the role of the computer in Sleeper.
- Was nominated for Broadway's 1972 Tony Award as Best Supporting or Featured Actor (Dramatic) for "Vivat! Vivat Regina!".
- Made his Broadway bow in "Tamburlaine the Great" at the Winter Garden Theatre (1956).
- Douglas James Rain passed away on November 11, 2018, six months away from what would have been his 91st birthday on May 9, 2019.
- Had one daughter with ex-wife Martha Henry, Emma Rain.
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