Max Baer Jr., known for his iconic role as Jethro Bodine in “The Beverly Hillbillies,” was a comedy legend. He brought a silly grin, a contagious laugh, and a rural accent to his character. Max’s big break came with the show, and his portrayal of the country bumpkin won the hearts of many.
Born on December 4, 1937, in Oakland, California, Max Baer Jr. faced a slow start to his acting career. His breakthrough came when he was cast as Jethro Bodine in the sitcom. He earned $1,000 for the pilot episode and $500 for subsequent shows.
Max reflected on his role, saying, “You just do the best you can with the material that you’re given, and then you try to add to it as much as you possibly can.” He acknowledged that the audience’s judgment matters most.
Today, at 85, Max Baer Jr. leads a quiet life in Tahoe, with little known about his current activities or health. A recent interview revealed that he’s in good physical and mental health. He remains a beloved figure, bringing laughter to “The Beverly Hillbillies” and forever residing in our hearts.
