Buddy Ebsen was an American actor who is best known for his roles in The Beverly Hillbillies, Barnaby Jones, and his early performance in The Wizard of Oz. His distinctive voice and towering height made him a memorable figure in film and television.
Personal and Family Life
Buddy Ebsen was born Christian Ludolf Ebsen Jr. on April 2, 1908, in Belleville, Illinois. He had three marriages throughout his life, the last being to Dorothy Ebsen from 1985 until his death in 2003. He had seven children, showcasing a robust family life alongside his successful career in entertainment.
Career Highlights
Ebsen began as a dancer on Broadway in the late 1920s and transitioned to film in the 1930s. He is notably recognized for his role as the Scarecrow in the original The Wizard of Oz, although he was replaced due to health issues related to the makeup. He later found great success on television with The Beverly Hillbillies and Barnaby Jones, cementing his place in pop culture history.
Death and Legacy
Buddy Ebsen passed away on July 6, 2003, in Torrance, California, due to complications from pneumonia. His legacy continues through his memorable character portrayals and the impact he made on television history, particularly as a beloved figure in classic American sitcoms.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast at Tiffany’s | 1961-10-06 | Doc Golightly |
| Davy Crockett, King of the Wild Frontier | 1955-05-25 | George Russel |
| The Beverly Hillbillies | 1962-09-26 | Jed “JD” Clampett |
| Barnaby Jones | 1973-01-28 | Barnaby Jones |
| Captain January | 1936-04-17 | Paul Roberts |
| The Wizard of Oz | 1939-08-15 | The Tin Man (singing voice) (uncredited) |
| The Horror at 37,000 Feet | 1973-02-13 | Glenn Farlee |
| Attack | 1956-09-19 | Tolliver |