Ed Begley Jr. is an American actor, environmentalist, and activist whose prolific career spans over five decades. Best known for his role as Dr. Victor Ehrlich in the acclaimed medical drama St. Elsewhere, Begley has proven himself to be a versatile actor capable of performing both comedic and dramatic roles with ease. His contributions to television, film, and activism have earned him recognition not only as a talented performer but also as a leading advocate for environmental sustainability.
Ed Begley Jr.’s career, which began in the late 1960s, has seen him appear in countless television shows and films. His portrayal of Dr. Ehrlich on St. Elsewhere in the 1980s is often considered his defining role, showcasing his ability to blend humor with humanity in a dramatic setting. Beyond his acting career, Begley has made significant strides in the environmental movement, becoming one of Hollywood’s most prominent voices for eco-friendly living.
Early Life and Family
Born Edward James Begley Jr. on September 16, 1949, in Los Angeles, California, Ed Begley Jr. grew up in the heart of the entertainment industry. His father, Ed Begley Sr., was an Oscar-winning actor, known for his work in films such as 12 Angry Men (1957) and Sweet Bird of Youth (1962). Raised in a show-business family, Begley was exposed to the world of acting from a young age, and his father’s success undoubtedly influenced his own career aspirations.
Despite his family’s connection to Hollywood, Begley’s childhood was not without challenges. His parents divorced when he was young, and he spent much of his time with his mother. Although he struggled academically due to undiagnosed dyslexia, Begley found solace in creative outlets, which led him to pursue acting as a career.
After graduating from Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks, California, Begley attended Los Angeles Valley College. It was during this time that he began to seriously consider acting as a profession, following in his father’s footsteps.
Acting Career and Early Roles
Ed Begley Jr.’s acting career began in the late 1960s when he landed guest roles on popular television series such as My Three Sons and Room 222. Although these early appearances were relatively small, they helped him gain experience in the industry. He continued to build his career with steady work throughout the 1970s, appearing in shows like MASH*, The Love Boat, and Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman.
During this period, Begley also made appearances in several films, including Stay Hungry (1976) and Blue Collar(1978), further establishing himself as a reliable character actor. His ability to play both comedic and serious roles made him a valuable asset to casting directors, and he became a familiar face on television.
However, it wasn’t until the early 1980s that Begley’s career truly took off, thanks to his breakthrough role on St. Elsewhere, the role that would cement his status as one of the most versatile actors in Hollywood.
Breakthrough Role on St. Elsewhere
In 1982, Ed Begley Jr. was cast as Dr. Victor Ehrlich in St. Elsewhere, a medical drama set in the fictional St. Eligius Hospital in Boston. Created by Joshua Brand and John Falsey, the show became known for its gritty realism, ensemble cast, and willingness to tackle controversial social issues such as AIDS, addiction, and mental health. Begley’s character, Dr. Ehrlich, was an eccentric but talented surgeon who provided much of the comic relief in the show’s otherwise serious tone.
Dr. Ehrlich was a beloved character among fans, and Begley’s portrayal earned him widespread acclaim. His ability to inject humor into a medical drama without undermining the gravity of the show’s themes made him a standout performer. Begley’s performance was both quirky and endearing, and he expertly walked the line between comedy and drama, making Dr. Ehrlich one of the most memorable characters on the show.
Throughout the six-season run of St. Elsewhere, Begley’s work earned him several award nominations, including six Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series. His portrayal of Dr. Ehrlich showcased his versatility as an actor, as he was able to balance the character’s humorous antics with more emotional moments, particularly when the show delved into the personal lives of the hospital staff.
Begley’s success on St. Elsewhere catapulted him to fame, and his work on the show remains a defining part of his career. His time on the series also allowed him to form lasting friendships with his co-stars, many of whom, including Denzel Washington and Howie Mandel, went on to achieve great success in their own careers.
Film and Television Work After St. Elsewhere
Following the end of St. Elsewhere in 1988, Ed Begley Jr. continued to work steadily in both television and film. He became a frequent collaborator with director Christopher Guest, appearing in several of Guest’s mockumentary films, including Best in Show (2000), A Mighty Wind (2003), and For Your Consideration (2006). These films, known for their improvisational style and ensemble casts, allowed Begley to showcase his comedic talents alongside actors such as Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, and Fred Willard.
In addition to his work with Guest, Begley appeared in numerous television shows throughout the 1990s and 2000s, including guest spots on The West Wing, Six Feet Under, and Arrested Development. He also took on voice acting roles in animated series such as Batman: The Animated Series and SpongeBob SquarePants, further demonstrating his range as a performer.
One of Begley’s most notable television roles during this period was his portrayal of Dr. Stan Wallace in the hit series Veronica Mars (2004-2006). His performance as the eccentric but well-meaning professor resonated with audiences, and the show’s success introduced Begley to a new generation of fans.
Environmental Activism
While Ed Begley Jr. has enjoyed a long and successful career in entertainment, his work as an environmental activist has been just as significant. A passionate advocate for sustainable living, Begley has been a leading voice in the environmental movement for decades. His dedication to eco-friendly living began in the 1970s when he started implementing green practices in his own life, long before it became fashionable in Hollywood.
Begley has long been an advocate of renewable energy, organic gardening, and reducing one’s carbon footprint. He has famously lived in a solar-powered home for many years and has even driven electric vehicles since the early 1970s. His commitment to environmentalism has inspired others in the industry to adopt similar practices.
In 2007, Begley starred in his own reality television series, Living with Ed, which aired on HGTV and later Discovery’s Planet Green. The show followed Begley and his wife, Rachelle Carson-Begley, as they demonstrated eco-friendly living and showcased the challenges and rewards of reducing their environmental impact. Living with Ed helped raise awareness about environmental issues and offered practical tips for viewers looking to live more sustainably.
In addition to his television show, Begley has authored several books on green living, including Living Like Ed: A Guide to the Eco-Friendly Life (2008) and Ed Begley Jr.’s Guide to Sustainable Living (2009). His work as an environmental advocate has earned him numerous awards, including recognition from environmental organizations such as the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and the Sierra Club.
Legacy in Entertainment and Activism
Ed Begley Jr.’s career as an actor and activist has made him a beloved figure in both Hollywood and the environmental community. His work on St. Elsewhere remains one of his most iconic roles, and his ability to balance comedy and drama has made him a versatile performer with a lasting impact on television and film.
Beyond his acting career, Begley’s dedication to environmentalism has helped raise awareness about sustainability and the importance of eco-friendly living. As one of Hollywood’s earliest and most vocal advocates for environmental issues, he has inspired countless individuals to adopt greener lifestyles.
Begley continues to work in the entertainment industry and remains an active voice in the fight for environmental sustainability. His legacy as both an actor and an activist is a testament to his talent, passion, and commitment to making the world a better place.