The Enduring On and Off-Screen Connection Between Ed Asner and Mary Tyler Moore
Mary Tyler Moore and Ed Asner are best known for their iconic roles on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” but their bond extended far beyond their on-screen chemistry. Their professional and personal connection developed into a deep friendship that lasted a lifetime.
The Iconic Roles in ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show’
Running from 1970 to 1977, “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” starred Mary Tyler Moore as Mary Richards, a single woman working as an associate producer in a Minneapolis TV newsroom. A key element of the series was the dynamic between Richards and her gruff yet endearing boss, Lou Grant, played by Ed Asner. Grant’s tough exterior often softened as he became a mentor to Richards, creating a memorable on-screen relationship. Despite the close association with these characters, Moore and Asner’s connection was much more than just their roles on the show.
Ed Asner’s Uncertain Path to Lou Grant
Ed Asner’s journey to becoming Lou Grant was far from straightforward. Initially, he had limited experience in comedy, yet he was given the opportunity to audition for the role. His first attempt was lackluster, but he was allowed a second try, which was more successful. However, when it came time to audition with Moore, Asner’s performance faltered again, making Moore question if he was the right fit. Despite her reservations, the producers assured her, “That’s your Lou Grant.”
The first official meeting between Moore and Asner occurred during this audition. Their chemistry was palpable from the start, particularly evident in the memorable scene where Grant tells Richards, “You’ve got spunk,” only to follow up with, “I hate spunk.” Asner recalled this as one of the most powerful moments in theater, largely due to Moore’s excellent portrayal.
Learning from a TV Legend
Mary Tyler Moore was already a household name, having gained fame and an Emmy Award from her time on “The Dick Van Dyke Show” in the 1960s. By 1970, she was not only the star of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” but also a co-owner of the production company behind it, MTM Enterprises. Despite her prominence, Moore was known for her generosity on set, often stepping back to allow others, whether main cast members or guest stars, to shine. Asner admired her team-player mentality and sought to emulate it when he transitioned to his own spinoff series, “Lou Grant,” also produced by MTM Enterprises. He understood that fostering a supportive environment was key to a successful show.
A Date That Confirmed Their Friendship
While Moore and Asner developed a close off-screen friendship, it never blossomed into a romance. Both were married during their time on the show, and even when they were both single after the series ended, they decided to go on only one date. The experience was reminiscent of a scene from the penultimate episode of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” where their characters, Grant and Richards, also went on a date. Just as on the show, they realized they were better off as friends, a decision that solidified their bond.
Continued Collaboration and Lasting Friendship
Moore and Asner enjoyed working together so much that they reunited for the 1997 TV film “Payback,” which Asner produced. However, Moore was disappointed with the final product, feeling it didn’t fully utilize her talents or honor their past relationship. Despite this disagreement, their friendship remained intact until Moore’s death at the age of 80 on January 25, 2017. Asner expressed his deep affection and gratitude for Moore on Twitter, stating, “A great lady I loved and owe so much to has left us. I will miss her. I will never be able to repay her for the blessings that she gave me.”
Their on-screen roles may have introduced them to millions, but it was their genuine off-screen connection that truly defined the enduring legacy of Mary Tyler Moore and Ed Asner.