Max Baer Jr., best known for his portrayal of Jethro Bodine in the famous television sitcom The Beverly Hillbillies, had an unusual post-show career. Baer Jr. was born on December 4, 1937, in Oakland, California, to famed boxer Max Baer and Mary Ellen Sullivan.
Baer Jr.’s acting career began in 1949 with a theatrical performance in England, but he didn’t get his big break until a fortuitous meeting at the Warner Bros. studio in Los Angeles. Despite having no prior expertise in the profession and being mistaken for James Garner, Baer Jr. was granted a one-year acting contract. He took advantage of the chance and began receiving tiny parts and guest appearances on numerous television series.
However, it was his portrayal of Jethro Bodine in The Beverly Hillbillies that made him famous. The program, which debuted in 1962, rapidly became a huge phenomenon and lasted nine seasons, totaling 274 episodes, until concluding in 1971. Baer Jr.’s depiction of the endearing and dim-witted Jethro won him fans and cemented his place as an American comedy hero.
After the program finished, Baer Jr. struggled to find new acting opportunities. Producers frequently perceived him just as Jethro, limiting his choice of jobs. Rather than lingering on this failure, he opted to pursue other opportunities in the entertainment world. He dabbled in producing and directing, helming films like “Ode to Billie Joe” and “Macon County Line,” both of which were unexpectedly lucrative.
Baer Jr. entered the business field as well. He bought the rights to The Beverly Hillbillies moniker from CBS in 1991, with ambitions to build casinos, theme parks, restaurants, and cosmetics based on the show’s premise and characters. However, his efforts were hampered by legal issues, and his aim of producing a blockbuster series did not come true.
Baer Jr. was recognized for his portrayal of Jethro throughout his career. Donna Douglas, who portrayed Elly May Clampett, praised his work and regarded him as a caring and protective cast member. The ability of Baer Jr. to fit in with the rest of the group and make viewers laugh was well-praised.
Aside from acting, Baer Jr. was passionate about sports, notably golf. He competed in events as a professional golfer, winning the pro-am category of the Andy Williams Golf Classic in 1968.
Personal traumas for Baer Jr. included the death of his father, Max Baer, and the terrible death of his lover, Chere Rhodes. Despite the difficulties and failures he faced, Baer Jr. remained resilient and pursued his interests.
Max Baer Jr. is remembered today, at the age of 84, as a great actor who provided delight to millions of viewers with his portrayal of Jethro Bodine. His contribution to The Beverly Hillbillies and his ability to make people laugh will always be remembered fondly.