Ed Asner

Ed Asner, born on November 15, 1929, in Kansas City, Missouri, is a legend in the world of entertainment with his unmatched talent and distinct voice. The son of Morris David Asner, a small business owner, and Lizzie Seliger, a housewife, Asner's humble beginnings did not deter him from pursuing a career in acting. After serving in the U.S. Army Signal Corps, he honed his craft at the Playwrights Theatre Company in Chicago, propelling him towards a successful career in Hollywood. Asner's breakthrough came when he was cast as Lou Grant in the television series The Mary Tyler Moore Show. His portrayal of the gruff but lovable news director garnered him critical acclaim and set the stage for a spin-off series titled Lou Grant. With these roles, Asner made history by becoming the first actor to receive Emmy Awards for a sitcom and a drama for the same character. He continued to demonstrate his versatility by voicing characters in popular animated films and series, including Carl Fredricksen in Up and Santa Claus in Elf. Beyond his acting career, Asner was also a respected figure in the realm of social activism. Serving two terms as president of the Screen Actors Guild, he used his platform to champion workers' rights within the entertainment industry. His commitment to causes such as ending homelessness, improving conditions for migrant farm workers, and advocating for universal healthcare further solidified his legacy. In recognition of his efforts, he received the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award in 2002. On August 29, 2021, Asner passed away at his Los Angeles home at the age of 91.