Jim Varney's Biography

Jim Varney, born James Albert Varney Jr. on June 15, 1949, in Lexington, Kentucky, was a beloved American actor and comedian best known for creating and portraying the iconic Ernest P. Worrell character. With his catchphrase 'KnowhutImean, Vern?' and slapstick humor, Varney captured the hearts of audiences across the United States in a series of commercials, television shows, and movies, most notably the 'Ernest Goes to...' film franchise. A graduate of Lafayette High School, Varney began acting in local theater before his big break with the Ernest character in regional TV commercials, which quickly gained national popularity. Over his career, he won a Daytime Emmy Award and was admired for his versatile talent, from comedic roles to voice acting, such as playing Slinky Dog in Pixar’s 'Toy Story.' Beyond acting, Varney was passionate about auto mechanics, classic cars, and poetry. Despite his fame, he maintained a humble and approachable persona. He passed away at age 50 in 2000, but his legacy as a comedic icon endures. His estimated net worth at the time of his death was around $3.5 million, primarily from film and TV earnings. Varney’s unique comedic style and memorable characters continue to inspire fans and entertainers alike.