Ed Asner, Emmy-Winning Actor From 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show,' Dies At 91

Seven-time Emmy-winning actor Ed Asner, heralded for his role as Lou Grant on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, has died at the age of 91. Asner's passing was announced on Sunday, via his official Twitter account, in a statement posted by the actor's family.

Listed with over 400 credits between television and film, Asner's time in Tinseltown first started in the 1950s and kept him active up to his passing in 2021.

Asner's silver screen legacy will carry on through his beloved character Lou Grant — a news director-turned-editor that represented true integrity in the print media cycle. An earnest mensch who lightly browbeat those around him, Lou Grant's character became an inspiration for journalists who sought a tough yet respected representation of the media. The 40-year-old Asner took on the role and won five Primetime Emmy awards as part of the Mary Tyler ensemble. He also received an eponymous spin-off of the character, which lasted from 1977-1982.

Ed Asner gained popularity among contemporary audiences in the Will Ferrell Christmas staple, Elf, and by playing the lead character, Carl Fredricksen, in Pixar's animated feature UP. The latter won Best Animated Feature Film of the Year at the 2010 Academy Awards and grossed over $700 million at the global box office.

The 91-year-old Asner passed away in his home in California due to natural causes. His death was honored throughout social media on Sunday — with many sharing some of his best moments from his days as Lou. And as Ed.

Follow along on Twitter: @AlejandroAveela