The Beverly Hillbillies remains one of television’s most iconic sitcoms, capturing audiences with its rags-to-riches story and unforgettable cast of characters. This show follows the Clampetts, a backwoods family that strikes it rich and moves to Beverly Hills, blending hilarious culture clashes with a warm-hearted story. With its premiere in 1962, The Beverly Hillbillies quickly became a household staple. Here, we dive into the fascinating lives of the actors who brought this beloved show to life and explore some lesser-known, yet hilarious, facts about the Clampetts.

Jed Clampett’s Big Fortune: Buddy Ebsen’s Role as the Patriarch

Buddy Ebsen starred as Jed Clampett, the family’s humble and kind-hearted patriarch. Jed discovers oil on his property, making the Clampetts instant millionaires. Known for his vaudeville background, Ebsen’s unique dancing style inspired animators at Disney, marking him as a creative influence beyond his acting. Interestingly, Ebsen was initially cast as the Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz, but had to leave due to a severe allergic reaction to the makeup.

Ebsen continued his television success with the detective series Barnaby Jones after The Beverly Hillbillies, making him a fixture in American entertainment until his passing in 2003.

Fun Fact: Adjusting for inflation, Jed’s $25 million would be worth around $254 million today—a fortune that truly exemplifies the “rags-to-riches” narrative.

Irene Ryan as Granny: A Firecracker in a Bonnet

The feisty Daisy May “Granny” Moses, played by Irene Ryan, was a fan favorite known for her spirited personality and hilarious misunderstandings. At only 60, Ryan had to wear aging makeup to embody Granny’s elderly look. Her vibrant personality gave life to Granny’s humorous outbursts and her “hillbilly wisdom,” making her one of the most beloved characters on the show.

After The Beverly Hillbillies, Ryan earned a Tony nomination for her role in Pippin, showing her range as an actress. Sadly, she passed away shortly after her Broadway success in 1973.

Did You Know? The Irene Ryan Foundation was established with her estate to provide scholarships to young actors. Her legacy continues to support upcoming talent in theater.

Donna Douglas as Elly May: The Southern Belle with a Wild Side

Donna Douglas brought charm and energy to the role of Elly May Clampett, the family’s beautiful but tomboyish daughter. Raised as a Southern “tomboy” herself, Douglas’s background helped her land the role, especially after she impressed producers by milking a goat during her audition! Her character’s love for animals and her playful spirit endeared her to fans.

Douglas found herself typecast after the show but managed to forge a new path by venturing into real estate and gospel music. She passed away in 2015, but her legacy as Elly May lives on in reruns and fans’ memories.

Interesting Tidbit: In 2010, Mattel released a Barbie doll based on Elly May, though Douglas was unhappy with the unauthorized use of her likeness and filed a lawsuit.

Max Baer Jr. as Jethro Bodine: The Simple-Minded Genius

Max Baer Jr. played Jethro Bodine, the goofy cousin of the Clampett family with dreams of grandeur, despite his lack of intelligence. Known for his funny antics and over-the-top ambition, Jethro’s character became an audience favorite. Baer was actually quite the opposite of Jethro—intelligent and driven, he even co-wrote and produced a successful indie film, Macon County Line, after The Beverly Hillbillies ended.

Although Baer has largely stepped away from Hollywood, he’s attempted several times to create a Beverly Hillbillies-themed casino, staying close to his roots in entertainment. He remains the only surviving member of the main cast, living a quieter life in Lake Tahoe.

Fun Fact: Baer mastered Jethro’s accent by listening to records from Andy Griffith, further illustrating his dedication to the role.

Raymond Bailey as Mr. Milburn Drysdale: The Wealth-Obsessed Banker

Raymond Bailey brought to life the character of Milburn Drysdale, the Clampetts’ banker who is constantly trying to keep their wealth (and business) within his grasp. Bailey’s portrayal of the nervous, money-hungry banker added a touch of Beverly Hills cynicism, contrasting with the simple-hearted Clampetts.

Bailey’s path to Hollywood was not easy; he worked various jobs, including stints in the Merchant Marines and as a plantation worker, before finally breaking into acting in the 1950s. Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s later in life, Bailey retired from acting in 1975 and passed away in 1980.

Did You Know? Bailey’s real-life experience as a banker added a layer of realism to his portrayal of Drysdale.

Nancy Kulp as Jane Hathaway: The Lovably Eccentric Secretary

Nancy Kulp’s portrayal of Jane Hathaway, the loyal yet quirky secretary to Mr. Drysdale, became an essential part of the show’s charm. With her unique mannerisms and often misguided attempts to help the Clampetts “fit in,” Hathaway’s character is still remembered fondly by fans. Kulp, who held degrees in journalism, English, and French, stumbled into acting later in life and built a successful career.

Kulp reportedly clashed with Buddy Ebsen on set due to their opposing political views, which even affected her campaign when she ran for Congress years later. She left Hollywood after her political run and spent her later years in Pennsylvania.

Fun Fact: Before she gained fame, a young Sharon Tate appeared as Hathaway’s assistant, marking one of Tate’s earliest roles.

Harriet MacGibbon as Margaret Drysdale: The Epitome of High Society

Harriet MacGibbon played Margaret Drysdale, the high-society wife of Mr. Drysdale who often looked down upon the Clampetts. MacGibbon’s theatrical background helped her embody the role of a snobby, upper-class woman who disapproves of her husband’s rural clients, adding an extra layer of humor to the show.

A seasoned actress before The Beverly Hillbillies, MacGibbon appeared in numerous productions across Broadway and film. She retired shortly after the show concluded, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most memorable “villains” in sitcom history.

Did You Know? MacGibbon’s lineage includes an abolitionist great-grandfather who played a notable role in the Underground Railroad.

Bea Benaderet as Pearl Bodine: The Warm and Lovable Aunt

Bea Benaderet initially auditioned for the role of Granny but ended up playing Jed’s cousin, Pearl Bodine. Known for her warm presence, Benaderet’s role extended beyond The Beverly Hillbillies as she later starred in Petticoat Junction, which creator Paul Henning specifically developed for her.

Sadly, Benaderet was diagnosed with lung cancer and passed away in 1968 during the production of Petticoat Junction. She left an indelible mark on television and is still remembered as a talented actress with a heartwarming personality.

Fun Fact: Benaderet was the voice behind Betty Rubble in The Flintstones, another beloved TV classic.

Conclusion

The cast of The Beverly Hillbillies brought humor, warmth, and unforgettable characters to life, each actor leaving a lasting legacy. From Buddy Ebsen’s earnest portrayal of Jed Clampett to Nancy Kulp’s endearing quirks as Jane Hathaway, each character added layers to this comedic tale of culture clash. Even decades after the final episode, The Beverly Hillbillies remains a cherished sitcom, reminding fans of simpler times, family values, and the humor found in life’s unexpected twists.