My Time with Ed Asner Through the Years

A story. Ed Asner was one of the truly good ones. When I was little, by my Dad’s office, he was filming a show called “Thunder Alley”. Having been fascinated by film making and the entertainment industry, I would go to the set and watch and wander. I was just a little precocious kid. And, Ed would actually talk to me. I assumed every big time actor was this kind. (they aren’t).

Then a few years later, Ed Asner hosted my Grandfather’s 80th birthday party (the picture with my sister). Again, he brought the kindness and professionalism as though it was one of his big shows or movies. This was not just a Rabbi’s 80th birthday. In his eyes, this was a production and he gave his all. Our family, and my Grandfather, were thrilled.

Finally, a few years ago, he was at the LA Film Festival, where my film was showing. We recollected and he treated me as if my story was more interesting than him. Spoiler. It’s not. And we recreated the picture from years prior (minus my sister). Again, he treated me as kind as he did when I was that little kid wandering around his set for Thunder Alley.

Hearing of his passing, I am reminded of just how humble, kind, talented, amazing hilarious and giving he was. I’m sure so so many others have amazing Ed Asner stories because that’s just who he was. He will be missed and remembered as one of the truly good ones for as long as I live. Thank you Ed for being you.