Ed Asner, born on November 15, 1929 in Kansas City, Kansas, was an American actor known for his role as Lou Grant on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. He was raised in a Jewish family, the son of Morris David Asner and Lizzie Seliger. Asner attended the University of Chicago, where he studied journalism. During his time at the university, he developed a passion for acting and eventually decided to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.
After graduating from the University of Chicago, Asner served in the U.S. Signal Corps during the Korean War. His time in the military helped shape his worldview and instilled in him a sense of duty and responsibility. Upon completing his military service, Asner began his acting career, appearing in various stage productions and television shows.
Asner gained widespread recognition for his role as Lou Grant on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, which aired from 1970 to 1977. His portrayal of the gruff yet lovable newsroom boss earned him critical acclaim and several awards, including five Primetime Emmy Awards. Asner's performance on the show helped solidify his reputation as a versatile and talented actor.
In addition to his acting career, Asner was also known for his political activism. He was a vocal supporter of liberal causes and championed various social justice issues. In 1981, he was elected president of the Screen Actors Guild, where he advocated for the rights of actors and other industry professionals. Asner's leadership during his time as president helped shape the direction of the organization and solidify its commitment to protecting the rights of its members.
In addition to his live-action work, Asner also lent his voice to several animated projects. He voiced the character of Carl Frederickson in Pixar's animated film Up, which was released in 2009. His performance in the film was widely praised, and further showcased his versatility as an actor. Asner continued to work in film and television throughout his career, appearing in a variety of roles that highlighted his talent and range as an actor.
Asner was married twice during his lifetime. He was first married to Nancy Sykes from 1959 to 1988, with whom he had three children - Matthew, Kate, and Liza. In 1998, he married Cindy Gilmore and had a son named Charles with her. Asner's dedication to his family was evident in his personal life, and he was known for being a loving and devoted husband and father.
Ed Asner's contributions to the entertainment industry and his advocacy for social justice have left a lasting impact on the world. He will be remembered not only for his iconic roles on screen, but also for his tireless dedication to important causes and his commitment to making the world a better place. Asner's legacy serves as a reminder of the power of art and activism to inspire change and create a more just and equitable society.
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