Max Baer Jr., the critically acclaimed actor best known for his iconic role as Jethro Bodine in the 1960s television series “The Beverly Hillbillies,” has died at the age of 50. Baer was born on December 4, 1929, in Oakland, California, to Max Baer Sr., a renowned boxer, and his wife, Mary Ellen Sullivan. In 1934, Baer's father died of a heart attack, and his mother went on to remarry, which led to Baer living in various states up and down the West Coast before finally settling in Alameda, California. Baer began acting as a child in local productions before making his television debut in 1949. He went on to have recurring roles in several popular television shows, including “Death Valley Days” and “Lassie,” and also appeared in several films such as “The Casino Murder Case,” “Bright Victory,” and “The Harder They Fall.” In 1962, Baer landed the role of Jethro Bodine on “The Beverly Hillbillies”. His performance as the simple-minded but lovable character led to Baer’s lasting fame and spawned a number of successful spin-offs and merchandising deals. Baer’s later life and career were marked by smaller television roles in “Fantasy Island”, “Love Boat”, and “Dallas.” He also had a minor role in the film adaptation of the Joan Crawford novel “Mommie Dearest.” Baer died due to a heart attack on November 21, 1959. He was 50 years old. He is survived by his three children.