Max Baer Jr., an American actor, screenwriter, and film producer, is best known for his role as Jethro Bodine on the classic television series “The Beverly Hillbillies.” His estimated net worth is $50 million.
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Early Life
Max Baer Jr. was born on December 4, 1937, in Oakland, California, to Maximilian Baer Sr. and Mary Ellen Sullivan. His father was a boxer and later became a referee, while his mother was a homemaker. Baer grew up in a Catholic household and attended St. Elizabeth’s Catholic School in Oakland.
Baer showed an interest in acting at an early age and began appearing in school plays. He also had a passion for sports, particularly football, and was a star player in high school. He graduated from McClymonds High School in 1955 and went on to attend Santa Clara University, where he played football and earned a degree in English.
Acting Career
Max Baer Jr. started his career in 1979 with the Blackpool Pavilion production of ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’ in England. In the 1960s, he began acting in a full-fledged way. He worked with Warner Bros. and appeared in numerous TV series like ‘Maverick,’ ‘Surfside 6’, ‘Cheyenne,’ ‘Hawaiian Eye,’ ’77 Sunset Strip’, ‘Bronco,’ ‘Sugarfoot,’ ‘Follow the Sun, and ‘It’s a Man’s World.’
Baer is best known for playing Jethro Bodine in the TV series ‘The Beverly Hillbillies.’ He also appeared in ‘Love, American Style,’ ‘Vacation Playhouse,’ and ‘A Time for Killing.’
Directorial and Producing Career
Baer made his directorial debut with ‘Macon County Line’ and went on to write, produce, and direct ‘The Wild McCullochs’ in 1975. In 1976, he directed and produced ‘Ode to Billy Joe,’ followed by ‘Hometown U.S.A.’ in 1979.
Entrepreneurial Endeavors
In addition to his acting and directing career, Baer also ventured into real estate and the casino industry. He aimed to build a ‘Beverly Hillbillies’ empire, including ‘Jethro’s Beverly Hills Mansion’ and casinos. However, the development of Jethro’s Casino was reportedly suspended in 2012.
Personal Life
Max Baer Jr. was married to Joanne Kathleen Hill, but they divorced in 1971. He has been linked to actress, entrepreneur, and author Victoria Principal and model Chere Rhodes in the past.
Baer sued CBS in 2014, alleging that a hidden contract with Jethro’s BBQ in Des Moines interfered with his ability to profit from his role on the iconic television show.
Conclusion
Max Baer Jr.’s success story began with his portrayal of Jethro Bodine on “The Beverly Hillbillies.” The show was a major hit, running for nine seasons and making Baer a household name. He went on to have a successful career in the entertainment industry, appearing in several television series and movies, directing and producing films, and venturing into entrepreneurship. With an estimated net worth of $50 million, Baer’s legacy as a talented and versatile entertainer continues to endure.
