Buddy Ebsen was an American actor and dancer, best known for his role as Jed Clampett on the television series The Beverly Hillbillies. Born on April 2, 1908, in Belleville, Illinois, he began his career in vaudeville and later transitioned to film and television. Ebsen's early fame came from his role in the 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz, where he was originally cast as the Tin Man. In addition to acting, Ebsen was a talented dancer and performed in various musicals. He starred in the popular detective series Barnaby Jones from 1973 to 1980, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Ebsen passed away on July 6, 2003, leaving behind a legacy in American entertainment.