Ed Asner: A Composite Portrait

"I hate spunk!" growled Ed Asner's Lou Grant at Mary Richards in the first episode of The Mary Tyler Moore Show in 1970. Despite this iconic line, Asner once told me, "It’s ironic because I actually love spunk." Whether you call it spunk, spirit, boldness, belligerence or all of the above, it fueled Asner’s storied career on and off screen.

 

But it proved a double-edged sword. His outspoken criticism of Reagan’s policies in Central America arguably led to the cancellation of Lou Grant, the Mary Tyler Moore Show spin-off in 1982, defying warnings and pleas from his network, producers, and agent. His liberal convictions required relentless expression, even in the face of Reagan’s conservative America.

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Ed told me it took two decades to rebuild his career, now cherished by a new generation for roles like Santa Claus in Elf and the voice of Carl Fredrickson in Pixar’s Up. Still vocal about his beliefs, he remains a steadfast advocate.

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Along with my multiple interviews with Ed late in his life, this book draws on the diverse perspectives of Asner's friends, colleagues, and family, presenting a multifaceted portrait of the man, actor, father, and activist. Interviews span generations, bringing together figures like Paul Rudd, Jason Alexander, and Michael Shannon with veterans Gavin MacLeod, Mike Farrell, Marsha Mason, Elliott Gould, Austin Pendleton, and Marion Ross. Creators of Up, Bob Petersen, Jonas Rivera, and Pete Docter, alongside writers, producers, cast members, and directors from The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Lou Grant, illuminate Asner's artistry and commitment.