Date of Birth: April 2, 1908
Zodiac Sign: Aries
Date of Death: July 6, 2003
Biography
Buddy Ebsen, born Christian Ludolf Ebsen Jr., was an American actor and dancer whose career spanned over seven decades. Born on April 2, 1908, in Belleville, Illinois, Ebsen’s family moved to Orlando, Florida, where he was raised. He originally planned to follow in his father’s footsteps and study medicine, but the Great Depression led him to seek work in show business instead. Ebsen began his career as a dancer in the late 1920s, performing in vaudeville acts and Broadway musicals alongside his sister, Vilma Ebsen. His unique dancing style caught the attention of Hollywood, and he transitioned to film in the early 1930s. He gained early fame for his role in “Broadway Melody of 1936” and was originally cast as the Tin Man in “The Wizard of Oz” (1939). Unfortunately, he had to drop out of the role due to a severe allergic reaction to the aluminum dust used in his makeup. Despite this setback, Ebsen continued to find success in both film and television. He is perhaps best known for his role as Jed Clampett in the popular TV series “The Beverly Hillbillies” (1962-1971) and as the titular character in the detective series “Barnaby Jones” (1973-1980). Ebsen’s versatility and enduring appeal made him a beloved figure in American entertainment. Ebsen was also an accomplished sailor, painter, and author, writing several books including his autobiography, “The Other Side of Oz.” He passed away on July 6, 2003, in Torrance, California, at the age of 95.
5 Interesting Facts about Buddy Ebsen
1. Buddy Ebsen was initially cast as the Tin Man in “The Wizard of Oz,” but had to leave the role due to a severe allergic reaction to the makeup.
2. He served in the Coast Guard during World War II.
3. Ebsen was an accomplished sailor and even owned a 35-foot boat named “Polynesian Concept.”
4. He was also a talented painter and had several of his works displayed in galleries.
5. Ebsen authored multiple books, including his autobiography “The Other Side of Oz” and a novel titled “Kelly’s Quest.”
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Buddy Ebsen
1. “Remember, that Buster Keaton said it best, ‘One day you’re the peacock, and the next day you’re the feather duster.’”
2. “The most important thing in life is to be yourself. Unless you can be a pirate. Then always be a pirate.”
3. “My father taught me that it’s not what happens to you, it’s how you react to it that matters.”
4. “Acting is a bit like surfing. You catch a wave, and sometimes it’s a great ride, and sometimes you wipe out.”
5. “I was always too tall to play the romantic lead, but maybe that’s a good thing. I never had to grow up.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Buddy Ebsen’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million.
Children
Buddy Ebsen had seven children: Susannah Ebsen, Cathy Ebsen, Bonnie Ebsen, Kiki Ebsen, Alix Ebsen, Dustin Ebsen, and Keith Ebsen.
Relevant Links
1. [Buddy Ebsen – IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0248064/
2. [Buddy Ebsen – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddy_Ebsen
5. [Buddy Ebsen – Find a Grave](https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/7662287/buddy-ebsen
