Max Baer Jr., born on December 4, 1937, in Oakland, California, grew up as the son of boxing legend Max Baer and Mary Ellen Sullivan. Though Baer Jr. initially pursued a career in golf, inspired by his father’s athleticism, he found his calling in acting. After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Santa Clara University in 1959, Baer Jr. relocated to Los Angeles.
There, his chance encounter with a Warner Bros. executive led to his discovery and subsequent decision to try acting. His initial roles were modest, with appearances in television series such as “77 Sunset Strip,” “Maverick,” and “Hawaiian Eye.”
Iconic Role in The Beverly Hillbillies
Baer Jr.’s most notable role came when he was cast as Jethro Bodine in the hit TV sitcom “The Beverly Hillbillies,” which debuted in 1962. The show, revolving around the Clampett family’s sudden wealth, quickly became a cultural phenomenon, reaching the No. 1 spot in television ratings within weeks. Baer Jr.’s portrayal of the bumbling yet endearing Jethro earned him widespread recognition. Despite his success, Baer Jr. earned a modest salary, starting at $1,000 for the pilot and rising to $4,500 per episode towards the show’s end.
Post-Beverly Hillbillies Career
Following the conclusion of “The Beverly Hillbillies” in 1971, Baer Jr. faced challenges in finding new acting roles. Producers often typecast him as Jethro, limiting his opportunities. Nonetheless, he made guest appearances on shows like “Love,” “Fantasy Island,” and “Murder, She Wrote.” Baer Jr. transitioned into directing and producing, achieving notable success with films like “Macon County Line” (1974), which became one of the highest-grossing indie films of the year.
Personal Life and Legacy
Baer Jr. was married to Joanne Hill from 1966 to 1971, but the couple did not have children. Baer Jr. has explained that he did not become a father because he felt he could not live up to the fatherly example set by his own father. His personal life was marked by tragedy, including the death of his partner Chere Rhodes in 2008.
Despite these hardships, Baer Jr. maintained a focus on his career, including ventures into business and acquiring the rights to “The Beverly Hillbillies” name.
Reflections and Continuing Influence
Max Baer Jr. remains the sole surviving member of the main cast of “The Beverly Hillbillies,” a show that has left an indelible mark on American television. Reflecting on his career, Baer Jr. acknowledges the role of Jethro Bodine as a significant part of his life, despite the challenges and limitations that followed. His career, marked by both notable successes and personal struggles, underscores the enduring legacy of his work in television and film.
