Jerry Mathers

Date of Birth: June 2, 1948

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Biography

Jerry Mathers, born Gerald Patrick Mathers, is an American actor best known for his iconic role as Theodore “Beaver” Cleaver on the television series “Leave It to Beaver.” Mathers was born in Sioux City, Iowa, and began his acting career at a very young age. His breakthrough came when he was cast in “Leave It to Beaver,” which aired from 1957 to 1963. The show became a cultural touchstone, and Mathers’ portrayal of the inquisitive and sometimes mischievous Beaver resonated with audiences, making him a household name. After the show ended, Mathers took a break from acting to focus on his education. He attended Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks, California, and later graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a degree in philosophy. Mathers also served in the California Air National Guard during the Vietnam War. In the 1980s, Mathers reprised his role as Beaver Cleaver in the reunion series “The New Leave It to Beaver,” which ran for several seasons. He has made guest appearances on various television shows and has worked as a spokesperson and motivational speaker, particularly focusing on diabetes awareness after being diagnosed with the condition himself.

5 Interesting Facts about Jerry Mathers

1. Jerry Mathers was the first child actor to receive a percentage of merchandise sales from a television show, a pioneering move in the industry.

2. He recorded a couple of songs in the early 1960s, including “Don’t ‘Cha Cry” and “Wind-Up Toy,” which enjoyed some popularity.

3. Mathers served in the California Air National Guard and was mistakenly reported as killed in action during the Vietnam War, a rumor he later dispelled.

4. He has been an advocate for diabetes education and awareness, sharing his personal experiences with the condition.

5. Mathers briefly ventured into real estate and banking after leaving the entertainment industry but eventually returned to acting.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Jerry Mathers

1. “I have several computer companies. One of them I have a program for wide-format printing. I have a beauty program. So I have several different programs that I own for printing.”

2. “When I was a kid, I had two friends, and they were both named Jerry. So people would call me Beaver. And that’s how it started.”

3. “Our generation is the first to have grown up with TV. I’m one of the first kids that they watched grow up on television.”

4. “I have a lot of people who are friends, but they don’t know me.”

5. “Leave It to Beaver is about a family. It’s not about the kids; it’s about the family and the everyday life.”