Few television shows have left such a lasting impact as The Beverly Hillbillies. This beloved comedy series, led by the talented Buddy Ebsen as Jed Clampett, captivated audiences and became legendary. Today, we remember the show and its iconic characters, particularly Max Baer Jr., who portrayed the lovable Jethro Bodine.
Max Baer Jr. has had an incredible career, from his unexpected casting in The Beverly Hillbillies to his successful turn as a professional golfer after his acting days. But there is one aspect of his personal life that sets him apart – he never became a father. And behind this choice lies a touching reason.
Born on December 4, 1937, in Oakland, California, Max Baer Jr. is the son of boxing legend Max Baer and Mary Ellen Sullivan. His early life and career were influenced by his father’s passion for sports. While Baer didn’t become a boxer like his father, he found success as a professional golfer. In fact, in 1968, he even won the pro-am division in a golf tournament with professional golfer Charlie Sifford.
Despite his success in golf, Baer saw acting as more of a hobby. He started with a stage production in England before taking on small roles in popular television series like 77 Sunset Strip, Maverick, and Hawaiian Eye. However, it was his role as Jethro Bodine in The Beverly Hillbillies that truly launched his career.
Baer’s audition for The Beverly Hillbillies was a stroke of luck. An executive at Warner Bros. saw a resemblance to James Garner and was immediately intrigued. Despite having little acting experience, Baer signed a one-year contract and embarked on what would become his most iconic role. Though his early episodes earned him $1,000 and later episodes $500, Baer’s talent for making people laugh was invaluable.
The success of The Beverly Hillbillies was undeniable, with the show quickly becoming a fan favorite, reaching the No. 1 spot in television history just three weeks after its debut. Baer’s portrayal of the naive but lovable Jethro Bodine earned him a special place in the hearts of the American TV viewers, even though his salary never matched his popularity. With each episode, Baer’s main goal was to make people laugh, whether they were laughing with him or at him.
Jethro Bodine became an unforgettable character on the show, with his quirky mannerisms and hilarious quotes. Baer’s dedication to the role paid off, and he became celebrated as an American comedy icon. Despite playing the same character for 274 episodes, Baer never grew tired of his role and found it impossible to pick a favorite episode. For him, the fulfillment came from making people laugh and bringing joy to their lives.
After The Beverly Hillbillies ended, Baer faced challenges in the industry. Producers struggled to see him as anyone other than Jethro and had a hard time envisioning him in different roles. However, Baer persevered and made guest appearances on various shows. He also expanded his career, venturing into producing and directing. Surprisingly, his movies, such as Ode to Billie Joe and Macon County Line, enjoyed unexpected success and propelled him into the business world.
Baer’s personal life took a different path. He married Joanne Hill in 1966, but their union lasted only until 1971. After their divorce, Baer never remarried or had children. He revealed that his father’s example as a father figure made him hesitant to become a parent. Max Baer Sr. had been a loving and devoted father, and Baer felt he couldn’t live up to that standard.
Throughout the years, Baer faced personal tragedies as well. His relationship with model Chere Rhodes came to a tragic end when she took her own life in 2008. Despite these challenges, Baer persevered and continued to share his talents with the world.
Looking back on his journey, Baer acknowledges that his family experienced its fair share of ups and downs. The Baer legacy saw dreams and aspirations take unexpected turns. Max Baer Sr. had wanted to be a prizefighter but became a butcher. Baer himself had hoped to become a lawyer but found success as an actor. The Beverly Hillbillies played a significant role in his career, exposing him to a wide audience and ensuring his work would always be appreciated.
As the last surviving cast member of The Beverly Hillbillies, Max Baer Jr. holds dear the memories he shared with his co-stars, especially Buddy Ebsen. When news of Ebsen’s failing health reached Baer, he visited him in the hospital alongside their television cousin, Donna Douglas.
Baer reminisces about the bittersweet moment when he entered Ebsen’s hospital room and had a heartfelt exchange with his dear friend. It was the last time Baer saw Ebsen alive, etching the memory into his heart as a testament to the cherished times they had on and off-screen. The bond forged during their years on The Beverly Hillbillies will forever be a part of a show beloved by all.
Max Baer Jr. has left an indelible mark on television history as Jethro Bodine, the lovable and simple-minded character from The Beverly Hillbillies. His talent for making people laugh, his commitment to his craft, and the memories he shared with his co-stars will always be remembered. If you, like many others, enjoyed the show, please share this article with friends and family on Facebook to celebrate the legacy of Max Baer Jr. and the unforgettable cast of The Beverly Hillbillies!
