Buddy Ebsen was an American actor, dancer, and singer who had a long career in show business. He was best known for his roles in the television series The Beverly Hillbillies and Barnaby Jones. He had a successful career in films, television, and stage. He was also a successful songwriter and recording artist. His real name was Christian Rudolph Ebsen, Jr. and he was born on April 2, 1908 in Belleville, Illinois.
Early Life of Buddy Ebsen
Buddy Ebsen was born Christian Rudolph Ebsen Jr. in Belleville, Illinois, on April 2, 1908. He was the son of Christian Rudolph Ebsen, a farmer, and his wife, Frances (née Ziegler). As a young boy, he was an avid reader and enjoyed playing in the outdoors. He attended Belleville High School and graduated in 1925. After graduating, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in show business.
He began his career as a vaudeville dancer, performing in the Ziegfeld Follies and other Broadway shows. He also began appearing in films, including the musical film Whoopee! (1930). He also appeared in several other films throughout the 1930s, including The Wizard of Oz (1939).
Career of Buddy Ebsen
Ebsen’s career in television began in the 1950s, with appearances in The Ford Television Theatre and The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show. He became well-known for his role as Jed Clampett in the television series The Beverly Hillbillies (1962-1971). He also starred in the television series Barnaby Jones (1973-1980). He continued to appear in films throughout his career, including The Interns (1962), The Silver Burro (1963), and The Private Navy of Sgt. O’Farrell (1968).
Ebsen also had a successful career as a recording artist. He released several albums throughout his career, including his debut album, “Buddy Ebsen Sings” (1957). He also released singles, including “The Mississippi Gambler” (1957) and “The Dancer” (1958).
Legacy of Buddy Ebsen
Buddy Ebsen had a long and successful career in show business. He was well-known for his roles in The Beverly Hillbillies and Barnaby Jones. He was also an accomplished singer and recording artist, releasing several albums and singles throughout his career. He also had a successful career in films, appearing in The Wizard of Oz and other films throughout the 1930s and 1960s.
Ebsen was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960 and received a Golden Globe Award nomination for his role in Barnaby Jones. He was also honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences in 1999.
Ebsen died on July 6, 2003, at the age of 95. He was survived by his wife, Nancy Wolcott, and his son, Jon Ebsen. He was buried at the Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles.
Buddy Ebsen was a beloved actor, dancer, and singer who had a long and successful career in show business. He was best known for his roles in The Beverly Hillbillies and Barnaby Jones. He had a successful career in films, television, and stage, as well as a successful career as a recording artist. He was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and was posthumously awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences in 1999.