Mary Tyler Moore Refused to Ever Work With Him Again – Guess Who!
Mary Tyler Moore was one of the most beloved actresses in television history, known for her charm, wit, and groundbreaking roles in The Dick Van Dyke Show and The Mary Tyler Moore Show. However, behind the scenes, not all was sunshine and laughter. Moore once famously refused to work with a particular co-star ever again. Who was it, and what caused this feud?
The Feud That Shocked Hollywood
The man in question was none other than Ed Asner, her co-star on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. While their on-screen chemistry as Mary Richards and Lou Grant was legendary, off-screen tensions ran high.
What Went Wrong?
According to multiple reports, Moore and Asner clashed over political differences and on-set behavior. Asner, a vocal activist, was deeply involved in labor union politics, which sometimes caused disruptions during filming. Moore, a consummate professional, reportedly grew frustrated with Asner’s strong opinions and the delays they caused.
In her memoir, After All, Moore hinted at tensions, writing:
“Some relationships on set were more challenging than others. There were moments when personal beliefs overshadowed the work.”
Asner, in later interviews, admitted they had disagreements but downplayed the feud, saying:
“Mary was a perfectionist, and so was I. Sometimes, that leads to friction.”
The Final Straw
The breaking point allegedly came when Asner’s political activism led to production delays. Moore, who was also a producer on the show, reportedly told producers she wouldn’t work with him again if such disruptions continued. While they finished The Mary Tyler Moore Show together, their professional relationship never fully recovered.
How Fans Reacted
Fans of the show were shocked when rumors of the feud surfaced. Social media reactions show mixed feelings:
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“I can’t believe Mary and Lou Grant had real-life drama!” – @ClassicTVFan
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“Politics ruining friendships… some things never change.” – @HollywoodHistorian
Watch the Tension Unfold
For a closer look at their dynamic, check out this behind-the-scenes clip from The Mary Tyler Moore Show .
Legacy of the Feud
Despite their differences, both Moore and Asner remained icons of television. Asner even reprised his role as Lou Grant in a spin-off series, proving the character’s enduring appeal. Moore, meanwhile, continued to be celebrated for her trailblazing career until her passing in 2017.
Conclusion
While Mary Tyler Moore and Ed Asner created one of TV’s most memorable duos, their off-screen relationship was far more complicated. Whether due to politics, professionalism, or personality clashes, their feud remains a fascinating piece of Hollywood history.
What do you think? Were Moore’s demands justified, or should Asner have been given more leeway? Share your thoughts in the comments!
