Today we tip our hats to the unforgettable Max Baer Jr., who brought us one of TV’s most beloved characters — the wide-eyed, muscle-bound, ""double-naught spy"" dreamer Jethro Bodine on The Beverly Hillbillies!
Jethro’s goofy grin and boundless ambition made him a fan favorite, but behind that lovable goof was a smart actor who understood exactly what made the show work.
As Buddy Ebsen (Jed Clampett) once explained, the corniness of The Beverly Hillbillies was no accident. It was deliberately crafted — a lighthearted blend of simple humor and exaggerated charm that welcomed viewers into a world where rural wisdom clashed with Beverly Hills glitz… and somehow always came out on top.
It wasn’t trying to be highbrow or clever — and that was its genius. It was proudly silly, full of heart, and endlessly entertaining. Thanks to Max Baer Jr.’s iconic portrayal, Jethro remains one of the great comic creations of classic television.
At 87 years old, Max Baer Jr. — best known as the lovable, dim-witted but big-hearted Jethro Bodine from The Beverly Hillbillies — remains the last surviving cast member of the iconic sitcom.
Though long retired from acting, Max still holds a special place in the hearts of fans and continues to draw attention for his enduring connection to the character that made him famous.
Now living a quiet life near Lake Tahoe, Nevada, Max enjoys golfing, reflecting on his legacy, and occasionally making headlines for his long-time dream of opening a Beverly Hillbillies-themed casino. While legal setbacks have delayed that project for years, it’s a testament to Max’s determination and entrepreneurial spirit.
He has often said, “I was born Max Baer Jr., and I’ll die Jethro Bodine,” acknowledging how deeply the role has defined him.
Yet behind the character was always a sharp, thoughtful actor and savvy businessman.
On his 87th birthday, tributes poured in from fans across generations, honoring not just the laughs he gave us as Jethro, but the legacy he continues to carry as a living piece of television history.
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