Ed Asner

Ed Asner 1977

Ed Asner
Born	Yitzhak Edward Asner (1929-11-15)November 15, 1929 Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
Died	August 29, 2021(2021-08-29) (aged 91) Tarzana, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Occupation	Actor, voice actor, activist
Years active	1957–2021
Children	4
Awards	Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (1971, 1972) Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series (1975, 1976, 1977) Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Single Performance by a Supporting Actor in a Comedy or Drama Series (1978) Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie (1980)

Ed Asner (born Yitzhak Edward Asner; November 15, 1929 – August 29, 2021) was an American actor and voice actor. He is best known for his role as Lou Grant on both the sitcom The Mary Tyler Moore Show and its spin-off series Lou Grant. Asner is the most honored male performer in the history of the Primetime Emmy Awards, having won seven, including five for his role as Lou Grant.

Early life

Asner was born in Kansas City, Missouri, to a Jewish family. He was raised in Kansas City, Kansas, where he attended Wyandotte High School. He later studied journalism at the University of Chicago but dropped out before graduating.

Career

Asner began his career in theater, performing with the Playwrights Theatre Company in Chicago. He made his television debut in 1957 and quickly became a familiar face on television, appearing in numerous series and television films.

The Mary Tyler Moore Show

Asner's breakthrough role came in 1970 when he was cast as Lou Grant, the gruff but lovable news director on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. The show was a critical and commercial success, and Asner's performance earned him three Primetime Emmy Awards.

Lou Grant

Following the end of The Mary Tyler Moore Show in 1977, Asner continued his role in the drama series Lou Grant. The show tackled serious social issues and earned Asner two more Emmy Awards.

Later career

Asner continued to work steadily in television and film throughout his career. He appeared in series such as Roots, Rich Man, Poor Man, and The Good Wife. He also provided voices for animated series and films, including the role of Carl Fredricksen in Pixar's Up.

Activism

Asner was known for his political activism. He served two terms as president of the Screen Actors Guild and was involved in various causes, including labor rights and human rights.

Personal life

Asner was married twice and had four children. He was an advocate for autism awareness, inspired by his son and grandson who are on the autism spectrum.

Death

Asner passed away on August 29, 2021, at the age of 91, in Tarzana, Los Angeles, California.

Legacy

Asner's contributions to television and film, as well as his activism, have left a lasting impact. He is remembered as one of the most versatile and respected actors of his generation.

Awards and honors

Asner received numerous awards throughout his career, including seven Primetime Emmy Awards and five Golden Globe Awards. He was also inducted into the Television Hall of Fame.

Filmography

Main article: Ed Asner filmography

See also

• List of actors with most Emmy wins
• List of Jewish actors

External links

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