Edward Asner is best known for his comedic and dramatic portrayal of journalist Lou Grant on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." He won three Emmy's for this role in 1971, 1972 and 1975 respectively.

In 1978 and 1980 he once again took the Emmy for the same character on the dramatic series "Lou Grant." Asner also won Emmys for his performance in "Rich Man, Poor Man" and "Roots." He has also been awarded five Golden Globes.

His motion picture credits include "They Call Me Mr. Tibbs," "El Dorado," "Skin Game," "Fort Apache -- The Bronx," "Daniel," and "JFK." Other TV credits include "The Christmas Star" and "Cruel Doubt." His voice may also be heard on the animated TV series "Captain Planet," "Batman," and "Gargoyles."

While enrolled at the University of Chicago, Asner appeared in "Murder in the Cathedral," and  "Tonight at Eight-Thirty." He served in the Army for two years and upon returning, he joined the Playwrights' Theater Club from which he left two years later in order to pursue his dreams in New York. It was here where he appeared in "Face of a Hero," numerous off-Broadway productions and the American and New York Shakespeare Festivals.

From 1981 to 1985, Edward Asner served as the National President of the Screen Actors Guild. He was an outspoken and controversial leader in the actors' strike of 1980.

Asner remains active in many humanitarian and political organizations. His time is divided between his dramatic roles, several political and charitable causes, and project developments with his company Quince Productions, Inc.