The Complete Cast Of Beverly Hillbillies: Where Are They Now?

The Beverly Hillbillies cast remains a beloved topic for fans of classic television, capturing the hearts of audiences since its debut in 1962. This iconic sitcom, which revolved around the Clampett family who struck oil and moved to Beverly Hills, featured a talented cast that brought unforgettable characters to life. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the lives and careers of the main cast members, exploring their journeys after the show ended and how they contributed to television history.

The show, created by Paul Henning, was not only a commercial success but also a cultural phenomenon that highlighted the contrast between rural and urban lifestyles. Its humorous take on wealth and social status resonated with viewers, making it a staple of American entertainment for nearly a decade. As we reflect on the Beverly Hillbillies cast, we will also consider how their performances shaped the landscape of television comedy.

We will explore the biographical details of each cast member, their notable works beyond the show, and fun facts that fans might not be aware of. This comprehensive guide aims to celebrate the legacy of the Beverly Hillbillies while providing insights into the lives of the actors who brought this beloved series to life.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Beverly Hillbillies Cast
• Main Cast Members
• Contractual Details
• Legacy of the Show
• Life After the Show
• Fun Facts About the Cast
• Related Publications
• Conclusion

Biography of Beverly Hillbillies Cast

The Beverly Hillbillies cast was composed of several talented actors who portrayed the eccentric Clampett family and their friends. Below is a brief overview of the main cast members:

Main Cast Members

The success of the Beverly Hillbillies can be attributed to its cast members, who gave life to the show's unique characters. Let's take a closer look at the main cast:

Buddy Ebsen as Jed Clampett

Buddy Ebsen played the patriarch of the Clampett family, Jed Clampett. With his down-to-earth demeanor and wisdom, Ebsen's portrayal of Jed made him a beloved figure among fans. Before his role in the Beverly Hillbillies, Ebsen had a successful career in vaudeville and film, including his part in the classic movie "The Wizard of Oz." After the show concluded, he starred in the detective series "Barnaby Jones," which ran from 1973 to 1980.

Donna Douglas as Elly May Clampett

Donna Douglas brought charm and vivacity to the role of Elly May, the beautiful and tomboyish daughter of Jed Clampett. Douglas's performance made Elly May a cultural icon, particularly among young girls of the era. Beyond her role in the Beverly Hillbillies, she appeared in various television shows and films, including "The Twilight Zone" and "The Wild Wild West." Douglas was also a successful author and a motivational speaker, sharing her journey and experiences with fans.

Max Baer Jr. as Jethro Bodine

Max Baer Jr. played the dim-witted but lovable Jethro Bodine, Jed's nephew. Baer's portrayal of Jethro added comedic relief to the series, making him a fan favorite. After the show ended, Baer pursued a career in film production and directing, producing successful films such as "Macon County Line" and "The Wild McCullochs." He also made guest appearances on various television series, maintaining a connection with his fans.

Raymond Bailey as Milburn Drysdale

Raymond Bailey portrayed Milburn Drysdale, the scheming banker who tried to exploit the Clampetts' newfound wealth. Bailey's performance added a layer of complexity to the character, making him both a foil and an antagonist to the Clampetts. After the show, he continued to act in various television series and films, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.

Nancy Kulp as Jane Hathaway

Nancy Kulp played the role of Jane Hathaway, the loyal and dedicated bank secretary who often found herself caught in the middle of the Clampetts' antics. Kulp was a talented actress and a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. After the Beverly Hillbillies, she appeared in numerous television shows and films, showcasing her versatile acting skills.

Harriet E. McGowan as Mrs. Drysdale

Harriet E. McGowan played Mrs. Drysdale, Milburn's wife, who often disapproved of the Clampetts. Her character provided comedic tension and showcased the contrast between the Clampetts and the upper-class lifestyle of Beverly Hills. McGowan's performances left a mark on the series, and she continued to act in various roles until her passing.

Contractual Details

The contractual arrangements for the Beverly Hillbillies cast are quite interesting, especially considering the show's immense popularity. Initially, the cast members were signed to relatively modest contracts, but as the show gained viewership, negotiations for better pay became essential.

• Buddy Ebsen was one of the highest-paid actors on the show, securing a significant salary increase after the first season.
• Donna Douglas negotiated her contract based on her rising popularity, resulting in a salary that reflected her status as a leading actress.
• Max Baer Jr. also negotiated his contract, as his character became increasingly popular among viewers.
• Raymond Bailey and Nancy Kulp maintained steady contracts throughout the show's run, with occasional renegotiations for salary adjustments.

Legacy of the Show

The Beverly Hillbillies left an indelible mark on television history, becoming one of the most-watched shows of its time. The show's blend of humor, social commentary, and memorable characters resonated with audiences, making it a classic that endures today.

• The series ran for nine seasons, from 1962 to 1971, and produced a total of 274 episodes.
• It received several nominations for Emmy Awards and won a Golden Globe for Best Television Series.
• The show's theme song, "The Ballad of Jed Clampett," became a cultural staple and remains popular to this day.

Life After the Show

After the Beverly Hillbillies concluded, the cast members embarked on various paths, some continuing their acting careers while others transitioned into new fields. Here's a brief overview of their post-show endeavors:

• Buddy Ebsen transitioned to a successful career in detective television with "Barnaby Jones," which aired for eight years.
• Donna Douglas pursued a career in writing and motivational speaking, sharing her life experiences with audiences.
• Max Ba