Ed Asner | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : December 23, 2024

Who is Ed Asner?

Ed Asner was an iconic American actor known for his unforgettable portrayal of Lou Grant, a gruff yet endearing newsman on the beloved sitcom The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Born on November 15, 1929, in Kansas City, Missouri, Asner’s career in acting was set in motion during his college years at the University of Chicago. After serving in the U.S. Army's Signal Corps, he moved to New York, landing varied roles on stage and television, but it was his role on The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970-1977) that solidified his place in television history. His performance earned him three Emmy Awards, highlighting both his talent and the show's cultural impact by featuring a strong, independent woman at its center.

Following the conclusion of The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Asner reprised his role as Lou Grant in the dramatic spin-off, Lou Grant (1977-1982). As a city editor in Los Angeles, Asner's character tackled pressing social issues while maintaining the comedic essence that fans loved. His outspoken nature on political matters, particularly regarding U.S. interventions in Central America, showcased his dedication beyond acting, demonstrating the actor's commitment to social justice. Lou Grant continued to receive recognition, earning Asner multiple Emmy nominations, winning twice, before the series was ultimately canceled in 1982, a move some attributed to Asner's activism.

Throughout the subsequent decades, Asner's career flourished across various television shows and films. He captivated audiences with notable performances in projects like the 2003 holiday favorite Elf, where he portrayed Santa Claus, and lent his distinctive voice to animated classics, including the Pixar film Up, which won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Asner served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1981 to 1985, exemplifying his commitment to advocating for actors’ rights. His legacy as a beloved performer and social activist endures, making Ed Asner a cherished figure in American entertainment history.

Early Life and Education

Ed Asner, born Edward David Asner on November 15, 1929, in Kansas City, Missouri, grew up in a close-knit Jewish family. The son of Russian immigrants, he was raised in a modest environment that fostered resilience and determination. His early exposure to the arts was significant; Asner participated in school plays, discovering his passion for acting during his formative years. He later attended the University of Chicago, where he immersed himself in the theater department. There, he honed his craft, participating in numerous productions that would lay the groundwork for his future career in acting.

After completing his education, Asner served in the U.S. Army's Signal Corps in the early 1950s. This experience not only instilled a sense of discipline within him but also provided insight into human stories and dynamics, which would become essential elements of his acting. Following his military service, he moved to New York City, pursuing a career in acting. Asner took part in various stage performances and television roles that gradually paved the way for his significant breakthrough. His dedication to his craft surely paid off, as he eventually became one of the most recognizable faces on American television.

Career Breakthrough with The Mary Tyler Moore Show

Ed Asner's career breakthrough came when he was cast as the gruff yet lovable newsman Lou Grant on the iconic sitcom The Mary Tyler Moore Show, which aired from 1970 to 1977. This groundbreaking series centered around Mary Richards, a determined woman working in television news in Minneapolis, and featured Asner's character as her hard-nosed yet caring boss. His portrayal of Lou Grant earned him widespread acclaim, being nominated for an Emmy Award seven times and winning three times. The character's complexity resonated with audiences, allowing Asner to become a household name while setting the stage for a successful acting career.

After The Mary Tyler Moore Show concluded, the character of Lou Grant was given new life in the spin-off drama series Lou Grant, which ran from 1977 to 1982. In this new context, Asner's Lou Grant transitioned from television producer to city editor of a Los Angeles newspaper, tackling serious social issues such as gun control and child welfare. This role not only showcased Asner's versatile acting ability but also reflected his own activism, particularly against U.S. foreign policy in Central America. The show maintained critical success, winning the Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series twice, with Asner consistently nominated for his lead performance, solidifying his legacy in television history.

Career Success and Achievements in Lou Grant

Ed Asner's career reached new heights with his portrayal of Lou Grant, a character that became iconic in both the realms of comedy and drama. Asner first introduced Lou Grant on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" (1970-1977), where he played the stern yet lovable news producer whose tough exterior masked a genuinely caring nature. His performance earned him immense recognition, resulting in three Emmy Awards during the show's run. The groundbreaking series not only entertained audiences but also provided a platform for discussing relevant social issues through its characters, particularly Asner's Lou Grant.

When "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" concluded, the character Lou Grant transitioned into a more serious role in the drama spin-off "Lou Grant" (1977-1982). This series focused on Grant's work as the city editor of a Los Angeles newspaper, tackling complex topics such as gun control and child abuse. Asner's strong portrayal in this setting earned him further acclaim, including two additional Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor. Notably, the show also highlighted Asner's activism, as he often used his platform to voice opposition to various political issues of the time, which some believe contributed to the show's eventual cancellation.

Later Projects and Voice Work

Ed Asner continued his prolific career beyond his most iconic roles, embracing various projects in television and film. He appeared in notable series throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, including a guest role on "The Closer" alongside Tom Selleck and a significant presence in "The Practice." Asner showcased his versatility through a regular role in "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip" and starred in the original series "Working Class," where he portrayed a butcher who develops a friendship with a struggling single mother. These projects reaffirmed his ability to adapt to changing television landscapes while maintaining his signature charm.

In addition to live-action roles, Ed Asner made a significant mark in voiceover work, which expanded his reach to a younger audience. He lent his distinctive voice to several animated series, including "Fish Police," "The Magic School Bus," and "Spider-Man." His most memorable voice role came with the Pixar film "Up" in 2009, where he voiced the endearing character Carl Fredricksen, earning critical acclaim for his performance. Asner's ability to imbue animated characters with emotion reflected his deep understanding of storytelling and theatricality, further solidifying his legacy in both live-action and animated entertainment.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

Ed Asner was married twice throughout his life. His first marriage was to Nancy Sykes, and together they had three children: Matthew, Liza, and Kate. Asner often spoke fondly of his role as a father and how raising his children was one of his proudest achievements. Despite the challenges of balancing a busy acting career with family life, he remained committed to his children, nurturing their interests and supporting them in their personal endeavors.

In 1998, Asner married Cindy Gilmore, but this union also faced challenges, leading to their divorce in 2015. Additionally, he had a son, Charles, from a later relationship with Carol Jean Vogelman. Asner’s family life was a crucial aspect of who he was, shaping his values and informing his performances on screen. Through both his successes and struggles, his roles as a father left a lasting impression on his legacy beyond his celebrated acting career.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary and Earnings

Ed Asner's successful career in the entertainment industry has contributed significantly to his net worth and earnings. Throughout his extensive career, which spanned several decades, Asner earned substantial income from his roles in both television and film. His groundbreaking portrayal of Lou Grant on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and its subsequent spin-off, "Lou Grant," earned him critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards, translating into lucrative contracts. Additionally, Asner's diverse portfolio included voice work in acclaimed animated films and series, such as his notable role in Pixar's "Up," further enhancing his financial standing.

Asner's ability to adapt his talent across various genres set him apart in a highly competitive industry. Beyond traditional acting, he lent his voice to numerous projects, ensuring a steady stream of income. His involvement in activism and leadership roles, particularly during his tenure as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1981-1985, added to his visibility and respect within the industry. Though specific figures regarding his net worth vary, estimates suggest that Asner's earnings and accolades throughout his career placed his net worth in the millions, marking him as one of the beloved and accomplished figures in show business.