RIP: Ed Asner

Americans have lost a great actor who soared in TV comedies like #MTM and #LouGrant. Asner was also a voice artist and a former #SAG president. An author, activist, and a warm, liberal, patriot as well as a wonderful human being. Like yours truly, every member of SAG/AFTRA owes Asner much.

I have once met with a WNEW-FM news anchorman and on my way back to the NBC newsroom, I was listening on the radio as he compared me with Mr. Grant.  Andy Fisher has been a friend and news colleague since. Asner was a burly, sincere and prolific character actor who became a star in his middle age as a gruff, but lovable news manager. I mention this because The Lou Grant character is set to live on in our cultural memory because Lou was the kind of boss-slash-father-figure that so many people wish they had: tough enough to handle all kinds of adversity, and compassionate with the folks who relied on him to be fair and considerate. It also reminds me of the real Lou who hire me at The Associated Press. Former AP President Lou Boccardi, who I will always call Uncle Lou.

 youtube.com/watch?v=_PL7Lvs_M1U …    #DONews

The Emmy-winning actor known for 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show,' and 'Up,' died on Sunday surrounded by family. Ed was 91.

Ed Asner on advice for young actors - EMMYTVLEGENDS.ORG https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e632E8c7Tfg