Ed Asner's Journey From 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' to 'Lou Grant'

Ed Asner, a legendary actor known for his captivating performances, brought the character of Lou Grant to life in the 1970s. His portrayal of the city editor for the fictional newspaper, The Los Angeles Times, in the television series Lou Grant, cemented his status as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry. This article delves into his remarkable journey from appearing in The Mary Tyler Moore Show to leading his own series, exploring how his career evolved and what happened to him after the end of 'Lou Grant'.

The Character of Lou Grant

The character of Lou Grant, played by Ed Asner, was a tough and relentless hard newsman. His character moved to Los Angeles for a job interview at The Los Angeles Times. He had a former friend and former coworker in the editor at the newspaper. After securing the position as city editor, Lou quickly became a pivotal figure in the world of journalism, synonymous with integrity and strong principles. While the show introduced new aspects to Lou's career, it did not seamlessly transition from the storyline of The Mary Tyler Moore Show, which was primarily set in Minneapolis.

Ed Asner's performance in Lou Grant was a masterclass in on-screen presence, showcasing his remarkable range and commitment to the role. Notable were the references to his newspaper days in different cities, such as Detroit, which added depth to the character and provided a sense of continuity across his various roles.

Impact of 'Lou Grant'

Lou Grant was not just any television series; it was groundbreaking and a massive success. The series ran for four seasons, from 1977 to 1982, and was praised for its thoughtful and often controversial content. The show tackled real-world issues such as media ethics, political corruption, and social injustice, and Asner's portrayal of Lou Grant was a key element in its success.

Despite its critical acclaim, Lou Grant never made guest appearances on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. This decision was likely a strategic choice, as both shows catered to different audiences and storylines. However, it remains noteworthy that neither of the stars from The Mary Tyler Moore Show ever made an appearance on the show, upholding the distinct narratives of each series.

Post-'Lou Grant': A Legendary Career

After Lou Grant came to an end, Ed Asner did not disappear from the entertainment industry. He continued to be a prominent figure in theater and film, receiving numerous accolades and awards for his outstanding performances.

Tragically, Ed Asner passed away in 2021 at the age of 91. His legacy, however, lives on, not just through his performances in Lou Grant, but also through his remarkable career that spanned decades. Asner left an indelible mark on the American entertainment landscape, and his contributions to television continue to be celebrated and analyzed.

References for Further Reading

For those interested in learning more about Ed Asner's career, his impact on television, and the development of the series Lou Grant, here are some valuable resources:

Wikipedia Entry on Ed Asner IMDb Entry for 'Lou Grant' TV Guide Entry for 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'

Conclusion

Ed Asner's journey from The Mary Tyler Moore Show to Lou Grant is a testament to his versatility and dedication to the craft of acting. His portrayal of the tenacious and principled city editor, Lou Grant, demonstrated his ability to create complex and relatable characters. Although Lou Grant did not have crossover appearances with The Mary Tyler Moore Show, it stands as a significant achievement in television history. Asner's contributions to American entertainment, both in front of and behind the camera, continue to inspire and influence future generations.