The TV comedy The Beverly Hillbillies had us all laughing with the antics of the Clampett family, led by the wealthy Jed Clampett, played by the legendary Buddy Ebsen. However, one of the main actors from the show is still with us today – Max Baer Jr., who portrayed the lovable Jethro Bodine. Let’s take a closer look at Max’s fascinating life and career.
Max Baer Jr. – From Acting to Golfing
Max Baer Jr., now 84 years old, had quite an interesting career. After making a name for himself in acting, he later became a professional golfer. But before we delve into that, let’s learn a bit about his background.
Born on December 4, 1937, in Oakland, California, Max Baer Jr. comes from a family of legends. His father was none other than boxing champion Max Baer, and his mother was Mary Ellen Sullivan. Growing up, Max showed a talent for both sports and acting, much like his father.
After his father’s untimely passing in 1959, Max Baer Jr. pursued his passion for golfing. Though not a professional boxer like his father, he competed in numerous golf tournaments in California. One of his biggest victories was winning the pro-am division of the Andy Williams Golf Classic in San Diego in 1968, alongside professional golfer Charlie Sifford.
However, Baer always considered acting as more of a hobby. In an interview with The Times in 1971, he said, “Golf is my specialty.” Despite his love for golf, Baer proved himself to be a talented actor.
From Hobby to Career: Baer’s Breakthrough Role
Baer’s first foray into acting was in the 1949 stage production of The Goldilocks and the Three Bears in England. Little did he know that this would set him on a path to Hollywood stardom.
In 1962, Baer landed his breakthrough role as Jethro Bodine on The Beverly Hillbillies. This role not only made him an icon of American comedy but also became the defining role of his career. Baer’s portrayal of the bumbling but endearing Jethro endeared him to audiences all across the country.
The Beverly Hillbillies was a massive hit and quickly reached number one in television ratings. The show ran for a total of 9 seasons and 274 episodes, until its cancellation in 1971. Though Baer’s salary per episode started at a modest $500, it eventually increased to about $4,500 per episode towards the end of the show’s run. Despite the show’s success, Baer never made a fortune from it. But what mattered most to him was making people smile.
Baer once said, “If I can make people laugh, it’s okay if they laugh at me. They can laugh with me or laugh at me. It doesn’t matter as long as they’re smiling. Because I think my acting is successful if I can make them laugh.” And successful he was, as his portrayal of Jethro Bodine brought joy to millions of households.
Remembering Buddy Ebsen and the Beverly Hillbillies Legacy
The passing of Max Baer Jr.’s co-star and dear friend, Buddy Ebsen, had a profound impact on him. In the last days before Ebsen’s death in 2003, Baer had the chance to see him one final time. Baer’s wife at the time, Dorothy, informed him that Ebsen’s life was coming to an end, and they rushed to his side at the hospital.
Baer fondly recalls that moment, saying, “I snuck in…I put my hand on his head, and he said, ‘Jethro.’ It was very sweet.” Those precious moments in the hospital were the last time Baer saw Ebsen alive. They serve as a reminder of the deep bond they shared as cast members of the legendary show.
But what happened to Baer after The Beverly Hillbillies ended? Despite the show’s tremendous success, Max Baer Jr. found it challenging to land roles that didn’t typecast him as Jethro. However, he didn’t let that stop him from pursuing his passion for the entertainment industry.
Baer found success as a producer and director, with two notable films under his belt: Ode to Billy Joe and The Macon County Line. His directing career proved to be a lucrative venture, with The Macon County Line becoming the highest-grossing indie film of 1974, earning over $30 million worldwide.
Max Baer Jr. Today
Today, Max Baer Jr. continues to be remembered for his iconic portrayal of Jethro Bodine. In recent years, he has shown interest in the world of casinos and even opened a casino based on The Beverly Hillbillies in Las Vegas. While he doesn’t have any children of his own, he has had several relationships throughout his life.
Max Baer Jr.’s remarkable journey from actor to golfer to producer showcases his versatility and determination. He strengthened the legacy of The Beverly Hillbillies and brought laughter and joy to millions. Baer’s dedication to making people smile remains his greatest success.
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