Let’s talk about Ed Asner, a name that resonates with generations of fans. Known for his iconic roles in The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Lou Grant, and more recently for his unforgettable performance in Elf, Asner wasn’t just a household name; he was a beloved figure. But behind the scenes, there was another side to Ed Asner—a side that mattered even more to him than fame or fortune. That side? Being a devoted father.
A Father’s Legacy
For Ed Asner, nothing compared to the joy of being a dad. His son, Matthew, recalls the daily calls they used to have. “I still have a message he left me,” Matthew shared in an exclusive interview with Closer. “It’s something I go back to whenever I need a pick-me-up. In that message, he told me how proud he was of me. Doesn’t matter how old you are or where you are in life—when your dad says those words, it means everything. My dad wasn’t just my dad; he was my best friend. I miss him every single day.”
Strict Yet Fair: A Father’s Guidance
Matthew paints a picture of his dad as someone who was strict but always fair. “My father supported me and my siblings in everything we did. He gave us the freedom to figure out who we were as individuals and celebrated each of us for who we became. He wasn’t just a dad; he was a teacher. He opened our eyes to so many incredible things, from art to politics to life itself.”
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A Mission Beyond Acting: The Ed Asner Family Center
Ed Asner’s love for family extended far beyond his own household. Inspired by Matthew’s three autistic sons and other family members on the spectrum, Ed co-founded the Ed Asner Family Center, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with autism and their families. Recently, the organization hosted its 11th Annual Ed Asner & Friends Celebrity Poker Night, an event that raises funds and awareness for this important cause.
“My dad absolutely loved poker,” Matthew explained. “He looked forward to these events like they were the highlight of his year. It was his way of bringing people together for a great cause. Now, we continue hosting these events in his honor, keeping his spirit alive through the work we do.”
Ed Asner: A Life Well-Lived
Ed Asner’s legacy isn’t just about the characters he played on screen. It’s about the love he poured into his family and the impact he had on the lives of countless others. Whether he was bringing laughter to audiences as Santa in Elf or supporting families in need through his nonprofit, Ed Asner touched hearts in ways that will never be forgotten. His story is a reminder that the greatest roles we play aren’t always in front of cameras—they’re the ones we live every day, with the people who matter most.
