Ed Begley, Jr.

Ed Begley, Jr. – Life, Career & Legacy of an Eco-Actor

Learn about Ed Begley Jr. — the award-nominated American actor and environmental activist born September 16, 1949 — including his acting career, activism, notable roles, quotes, and lessons from his life.

Introduction

Ed Begley Jr. is an American actor and environmental advocate whose career spans more than five decades. Best known for his role as Dr. Victor Ehrlich in St. Elsewhere, he has appeared in numerous films, television series, and stage productions. But beyond his acting, what sets him apart is his lifelong commitment to eco-conscious living and activism. Born September 16, 1949, Begley combines artistry with purpose, using his platform to champion greener lifestyles.

Early Life and Family

Ed Begley, Jr. was born Edward James Begley Jr. on September 16, 1949, in Los Angeles, California. He is the son of Oscar-winning actor Ed Begley Sr. and Allene Jeanne (Sanders).

Though born in California, Begley spent some of his childhood in Merrick, New York, where his family lived for a period. He attended a Catholic school in New York for his early schooling. When he was about 13, his family moved back to California, and he later graduated from Van Nuys High School.

After high school, Begley attended Los Angeles Valley College in North Hollywood. He also studied acting and theater, training for the stage.

Growing up in a family with acting pedigree, Begley was exposed to the entertainment world early.

Career & Achievements

Early Roles & Television Breakthrough

Begley’s acting career began in the late 1960s and early 1970s, with guest roles in television shows such as My Three Sons. Over time, he accumulated many credits in TV guest appearances and recurring roles.

His major breakthrough came with the role of Dr. Victor Ehrlich on the acclaimed hospital drama St. Elsewhere, on which he appeared from 1982 to 1988. For that role, he received six consecutive Primetime Emmy nominations and also a Golden Globe nomination.

Film and Ensemble & Mockumentaries

Beyond TV, Begley has acted in many films across genres. Some notable ones include Blue Collar (1978), An Officer and a Gentleman (1982), This Is Spinal Tap (1984), The Accidental Tourist (1988), She-Devil (1989), Batman Forever (1995), Pineapple Express (2008), among others.

He has been a frequent collaborator in ensemble and mockumentary films, especially with Christopher Guest and Eugene Levy, appearing in Best in Show (2000), A Mighty Wind (2003), For Your Consideration (2006), Mascots (2016) and others.

Later Television & Roles

Over the years, Begley continued to appear in television series, both in guest and recurring roles. For example, he has had parts in Better Call Saul (as Clifford Main), Young Sheldon, Arrested Development, Six Feet Under, Kingdom Hospital, The West Wing, and more.

He also participated in reality / documentary style shows relating to sustainability, such as Living with Ed, a program he co-hosted with his wife, focusing on eco-friendly living.

In 2016, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which added a personal dimension to some of his later public presence.

Activism & Environmental Leadership

One of the distinguishing features of Ed Begley Jr.’s public life is his consistent and deeply practiced environmental activism.

• Since the early 1970s, he has been active in promoting sustainable living, electric vehicles, solar power, recycling, and green architecture.

• He has made his own home highly eco-efficient—using solar panels, wind turbines, energy-saving appliances, drought-tolerant landscaping, and more.

• He co-starred in Living with Ed (2007–2010), a television series about green lifestyles, which he shared with his wife.

• He has authored books on sustainable living, such as Living Like Ed: A Guide to the Eco-Friendly Life (2008) and Ed Begley Jr.’s Guide to Sustainable Living (2009).

• Begley has often eschewed glamorous or wasteful celebrity practices—he is known to use public transit, electric vehicles, and often speaks on environmental causes.

Because of how closely he aligns his actions with his advocacy, many regard him as one of the more authentic voices in celebrity environmentalism.

Personality, Style & Influence

Ed Begley Jr. is known for being earnest, quirky, sometimes outspoken, but consistent. He often plays intelligent, somewhat eccentric characters—roles that suit his natural voice and demeanor. In interviews and public appearances, he doesn’t shy away from discussing the challenges of leading a green life, and he balances optimism with realism.

His advocacy style is hands-on—rather than just talking, he demonstrates through his home, his vehicle choices, and day-to-day life. That gives his environmental voice credibility, especially in a sphere where many celebrity endorsements can be superficial.

As an actor, he is respected for his range—moving from drama to comedy, ensemble casts, and character work. His longevity in both acting and activism situates him as a bridge between entertainment and social impact.

Memorable Quotes

Here are some quotes attributed to Ed Begley Jr. that reflect his views on life, environment, and art:

• “I don’t want to be somebody who just talks about it—I want to live it.”

• “You can’t just recycle your way out of climate change, but it’s a way to begin.”

• “If you do what’s easy, life will be hard. But if you do what’s hard, life will be easy.”

• “I’ve got a lot of shortcomings. But I’m trying to live as green a life as possible, and if I stumble, I try to correct.”

These statements highlight a humility about imperfection and a steady commitment to doing what he can.

Lessons from Ed Begley Jr.’s Journey

From his life and career, we can draw several lessons:

1. Align your values and actions
   Begley’s example shows that credibility is strengthened when public advocacy is matched by private practice.

2. Sustainability is a long path, not a moment
   His decades of environmental work show that lasting change is cumulative, not immediate.

3. Versatility in craft helps longevity
   By doing character roles, television, film, ensemble and activism, Begley has maintained relevance across changing eras.

4. Speak with authenticity, not grandstanding
   His moderate tone, personal stories, and willingness to admit faults make his message more accessible.

5. Face challenges with courage
   His public presence after a Parkinson’s diagnosis shows resilience in continuing work and advocacy despite obstacles.

Conclusion

Ed Begley Jr. embodies a rare fusion: a working actor of serious chops, and an environmentalist whose personal life echoes his convictions. His work in St. Elsewhere and in many films is substantial, but equally notable is his advocacy for sustainable living and ecological responsibility.

He reminds us that celebrity can be used as a vehicle for change—not just through speeches, but through the homes we build, the choices we make, and the consistency of our actions. If you like, I can also prepare a timeline of Ed Begley Jr.’s major roles or a list of his best environmental projects. Would you like me to do that?