The Beverly Hillbillies, a beloved sitcom that aired on CBS from 1962 to 1971, introduced audiences to the quirky Clampett family and their hilarious adventures. The series followed Jed Clampett, a poor widower living in the Ozarks, who discovers oil on his property and becomes incredibly wealthy. Jed then moves his family—including his tomboyish daughter Elly May, his mother-in-law (often called Granny), and his naive cousin Jethro Bodine—to the affluent neighborhood of Beverly Hills. The show’s unique blend of backwoods charm and Beverly Hills glamour struck a chord with viewers, and it quickly became a television sensation. Over its nine seasons, The Beverly Hillbillies was nominated for seven Emmy Awards and turned its cast into stars, including Buddy Ebsen (Jed Clampett), Donna Douglas (Elly May Clampett), Irene Ryan (Granny), and Max Baer Jr. (Jethro Bodine).

Today, Max Baer Jr. stands as the last surviving main cast member of The Beverly Hillbillies. As the actor who brought Jethro Bodine’s simple-minded charm to life, Baer has a unique place in television history. Here, we explore what Baer has been up to since The Beverly Hillbillies ended and reveal his impressive net worth.

Max Baer Jr. as Jethro Bodine: A Role That Made Him a Star

Max Baer Jr., born on December 4, 1937, made his mark on Hollywood with his portrayal of Jethro Bodine, the bumbling yet lovable cousin of Jed Clampett. In the show, Jethro is a comically naive character who frequently boasts about his “sixth-grade education” and dreams of various careers—from Hollywood actor to secret agent—all with a charming innocence. Baer’s impeccable comedic timing brought the character to life and made Jethro one of the most memorable parts of The Beverly Hillbillies. Baer’s portrayal resonated so strongly that even decades later, Jethro remains a beloved figure in American pop culture.

Life After The Beverly Hillbillies

Following the conclusion of The Beverly Hillbillies, Baer faced the challenge of overcoming typecasting—a common issue for actors who achieve fame through a single, iconic role. Despite his talent, Hollywood saw him as Jethro, which limited his opportunities in television and film. Rather than remain frustrated, Baer took matters into his own hands and shifted his focus to producing and directing.

In 1974, Baer co-wrote, produced, and directed Macon County Line, a low-budget film that became a surprise hit. The movie was made for just $110,000 but went on to earn around $35 million at the box office, making it one of the most profitable independent films of that era. This success showcased Baer’s business acumen and talent behind the camera, proving he was more than just “Jethro.”

Baer went on to produce a few more films, including Ode to Billy Joe, another financially successful project. However, despite his achievements as a producer, Baer eventually withdrew from Hollywood, preferring a quieter life away from the spotlight.

Attempts to Open a Beverly Hillbillies Casino

In recent years, Baer has pursued various entrepreneurial ventures, most notably his long-standing dream of opening a Beverly Hillbillies-themed casino. He envisioned a casino that would capitalize on the show’s enduring popularity and capture the essence of the Clampetts’ story. Despite several attempts to get the project off the ground in Nevada, Baer faced numerous obstacles, including zoning issues and community opposition. Although his plans for the casino never materialized, Baer’s determination demonstrated his continued passion for honoring The Beverly Hillbillies and its legacy.

Max Baer Jr.’s Impressive Net Worth

Max Baer Jr.’s savvy investments and success as a producer have allowed him to accumulate a significant net worth. While exact figures can vary, estimates suggest that his net worth is around $50 million. This impressive fortune reflects not only his earnings from The Beverly Hillbillies but also his intelligent business moves, especially with the enduring profits from his film projects like Macon County Line. Baer’s wealth is a testament to his resilience and adaptability in an industry that often limits actors to their most recognizable roles.

Life Today: The Legacy of Max Baer Jr.

Now in his 80s, Baer resides in Lake Tahoe, California, where he enjoys a relatively private life. As the last living star of The Beverly Hillbillies, he remains a cherished link to the show that brought laughter and joy to millions. Baer’s journey from being typecast as Jethro Bodine to becoming a successful producer and entrepreneur showcases his adaptability and determination. Fans continue to remember him not only as Jethro but as an actor who forged his own path and maintained his connection to The Beverly Hillbillies legacy.

A Lasting Legacy

As the final remaining star of The Beverly Hillbillies, Max Baer Jr. holds a unique place in television history. His portrayal of Jethro Bodine helped shape the success of a beloved show that continues to be watched by generations of fans. Baer’s life after The Beverly Hillbillies is a story of reinvention and resilience, proving that his talents extend far beyond the role that made him famous.