Remembering Ed Asner: A Legendary Actor And Devoted Father

Alaina April 19, 2025

You probably recognize Ed Asner for his unforgettable performances on shows like The Mary Tyler Moore Show, but there's so much more to the man than just his acting prowess. He was also a loving father to four amazing kids. It's tough to talk about this, but Ed, who touched so many lives, passed away at the age of 91 on August 29. His children—Matthew, Liza, Kate, and Charles—shared the heartbreaking news with the world on Twitter, reminding us all just how much he meant to so many people.

In a heartfelt tweet from Ed's official Twitter account, the family wrote, “We are sorry to say that our beloved patriarch passed away this morning peacefully. Words cannot express the sadness we feel. With a kiss on your head — Goodnight dad. We love you.” These words capture the immense love and respect the family had for Ed, a man whose legacy lives on through his incredible work and his role as a father.

A Journey Through Fatherhood

Building a Family

Ed Asner became a father nearly six decades ago, during his marriage to Nancy Sykes. They tied the knot in 1959, and their love story led to the arrival of twins—a son named Matthew and a daughter named Liza—in 1963. The family grew even further in 1966 when they welcomed their third child, Kate. Though Ed and Nancy parted ways after over 20 years of marriage, their bond as parents remained strong, shaping the lives of their children in profound ways.

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Expanding His Legacy

In 1987, Ed added another chapter to his story of fatherhood when he became the father of Charles with his partner at the time, Carol Jean Vogelman. Although their relationship ended after Charles's birth, Ed’s dedication to his children never wavered. Later, in 1998, Ed married Cindy Gilmore, marking another significant chapter in his personal life. Though they didn’t have children together, their marriage lasted until their divorce in 2015, as reported by the Daily Mail.

Life Lessons from a Legend

Through the years, Ed Asner learned countless lessons about life, many of which came from raising his children and watching them grow into the incredible adults they became. Speaking with Closer at his milestone 90th birthday celebration in November 2019, Ed revealed his secret to staying sharp and aging gracefully: “Keep your mind active.” Simple advice, yet so powerful.

Ed also shared other pearls of wisdom, emphasizing the importance of staying engaged in life. “It’s all about working, reading, and being with people who can excite you,” he explained. Clearly, Ed had no intention of slowing down anytime soon. In fact, he joked with Closer in a separate interview, saying, “Not as long as I can still lift my arms up to my head. It’s getting more difficult—I can’t reach beyond my head, but if I can scratch my head, I can still work. I want another 90 years!” That kind of determination and humor perfectly encapsulated who Ed Asner was—a man who lived life to the fullest.

A Life Well-Lived

Ed Asner was a man who gave his all to both his career and his family. He was a seven-time Emmy winner whose performances resonated with millions, but he was also a devoted father whose love for his children shone through in everything he did. His commitment to his craft and his loved ones made him a true legend, both in front of the camera and behind closed doors.

Curious to learn more about Ed’s incredible children? Scroll through the gallery below to meet Matthew, Liza, Kate, and Charles, the amazing kids who carried on their father’s legacy.

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