Ed Begley Jr.'s roots run deep in Hollywood. The TV and film star grew up in the Van Nuys neighborhood of Los Angeles, the son of Oscar-winning actor Ed Begley, who took home the Best Supporting Actor trophy for 1962’s Sweet Bird of Youth. Two decades later, Ed Jr. would go on to earn himself an impressive six consecutive Emmy nominations for his supporting role as Dr. Victor Ehrlich on the critically acclaimed drama St. Elsewhere.
On the big screen, Begley’s stolen the spotlight in films such as She-Devil, Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, Batman Forever, and Pineapple Express, while his star has also shone on TV’s Arrested Development, Veronica Mars, Six Feet Under, Better Call Saul, Young Sheldon, and 2024’s NFL-meets-Hallmark movie, Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story.
The longtime environmentalist and clean-energy activist—Begley’s opted to ride his bike or take public transportation to award shows—has penned such books as Living Like Ed: A Guide to the Eco-Friendly Life and Ed Begley Jr.’s Guide to Sustainable Living, and he also released a memoir, To the Temple of Tranquility…And Step on It!, in 2023.
Here, Begley shares all his favorite things about his home state, from his go-to organic eatery and concert spot to inspiring hikes.
Where do you live? I live in Studio City, California.
Why there? I grew up in Van Nuys, a few short miles away, and I always liked the area of Studio City because of its walkability and its proximity to several major studios.
Who or what is your greatest California love? My greatest love is the Santa Monica Mountains. There is an area called Fryman Canyon, right in the middle of Studio City, and it is like a mini Griffith Park … smack dab in the middle of my hometown.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? People think that we are all very laid-back here. I have been anything but laid-back for most of my life and I finally managed to find some measure of serenity in my later years. It’s much better this way.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? That we are seekers of various forms of spirituality.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? My favorite Golden State splurge is going to the Hollywood Bowl to hear live music.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? I am driving up to the [Mendocino County] town of Willits to marvel at the redwood forests that remain.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? It would be the yellow curry at H.O.P.E. (Healthy Organic Positive Eating), a great Studio City family-owned vegan restaurant.
What is your favorite way to play in California? My favorite way to play is to bicycle around the San Fernando Valley.
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? I would go to the Farmers Market in Studio City on any given Sunday.
Best California song? “Hotel California” by the Eagles because the music is great, and the lyrics are like no other.
How would your California dream day unfold? I would get up and have my morning coffee. I would then go out to the yard to do some gardening, and I would go around the house and do all the puttering that needs to be done including checking my solar panels to make sure the output is appropriate. I would probably ride my bike to the store to get a few supplies for the garden. I would then return home and use those supplies with what I have growing in the garden and make myself and family a nice meal where we can share a conversation about our day.