The term 'Lion Portrayer' refers to Bert Lahr, an American actor who is best known for his role as the Cowardly Lion in the 1939 film adaptation of The Wizard of Oz. Lahr was born in New York City in 1895 and began his career in vaudeville before transitioning to Broadway and eventually Hollywood. He was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance in The Wizard of Oz and is remembered for his comedic timing and physical comedy.