Who Is Efrem Zimbalist Jr.? Age, Biography and Wiki
Efrem Zimbalist Jr. was born on November 30, 1918, and passed away on May 2, 2014. As of 2025, he would have been 106 years old. Renowned for his compelling on-screen performances, Zimbalist was a prolific actor best known for his roles in popular television series like 77 Sunset Strip and The F.B.I. His career spanned over 50 years and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
| Occupation | Voice Actors |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 30, 1918 |
| Age | 95 Years |
| Birth Place | Brooklyn, New York, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 2 May, 2014 |
| Died Place | Solvang, California, U.S. |
Popularity
Efrem Zimbalist Jr.'s Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Though specific details about Efrem Zimbalist Jr.'s height and weight may not be widely documented, he was known to have a commanding presence on screen. In his prime, he stood approximately 6 feet tall, embodying a classic leading man’s physique, which was well-suited to his roles during the mid-20th century.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Efrem Zimbalist Jr. had a rich personal life characterized by both love and tragedy. He was married to actress Emily McLaughlin from 1946 until their divorce in 1959. The couple had one daughter, Stephanie Zimbalist, who followed in her father's footsteps and became an accomplished actress herself. Throughout his life, Zimbalist maintained a close relationship with his family, balancing his professional commitments with personal bonds. Though he kept much of his private life out of the public eye, Zimbalist was known to have been involved in various relationships, which he preferred to keep discreet.
He had an older sister, Mary (1915–2008), along with a half-sister from his mother's first marriage, author Marcia Davenport (1903–1996). His stepmother was Mary Louise Curtis, the founder of the Curtis Institute of Music. Both parents converted to Anglican Christianity and regularly attended the Episcopal Church. Zimbalist Jr. attended Fay School in Southborough, Massachusetts.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Efrem Zimbalist Jr.’s net worth was estimated to be around $2 million. This wealth was accumulated over his extensive career in television, film, and voice acting. His long-standing role in The F.B.I. and various guest appearances on popular shows significantly contributed to his earnings. He was also a talented voice actor, lending his voice to characters in animated series and films.
Career, Business and Investments
Zimbalist’s career began in the late 1940s and continued well into the 2000s. He became a household name through groundbreaking roles in television history. His portrayal of suave private investigator Efrem Zimbalist in 77 Sunset Strip enjoyed critical acclaim and viewer popularity, establishing him as a star. In addition to acting, he ventured into voice work, including narrating documentaries and voicing characters in animated projects, which further diversified his portfolio and income sources.
Moreover, Zimbalist engaged in various business ventures throughout his career, though specific details remain relatively private. His investments showcased his foresight and adaptability within the entertainment industry.
Zimbalist was drafted in 1941. Inducted into the United States Army, he completed his initial training at Fort Dix, New Jersey. Selected for officer candidate school, after graduation in 1943 he received his commission as a second lieutenant of Infantry.
Zimbalist was assigned as a platoon leader in Company L, 3rd Battalion, 60th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division and participated in combat in Europe following the Normandy landings.
He was discharged at the end of the war, and his awards and decorations included the Bronze Star Medal and Combat Infantryman Badge, in addition to the Purple Heart he received for a shrapnel wound to his leg during the battle of Hürtgen Forest.
Social Network
While Efrem Zimbalist Jr. was active during a time when social media did not exist, his legacy continues to thrive in the digital age. Fans can find tribute pages and social media accounts dedicated to commemorating his work and contributions to the arts. His daughter, Stephanie Zimbalist, also carries on the family name and often shares insights about her father’s life and career on various platforms.
In 2008, he appeared in the short film The Delivery, in which he played a professor who helps a young girl in her struggles for literacy. The film won first place in fantasy at the Dragon*Con Film Festival and was an official selection at the Los Angeles International Children's Festival and the Reel Women International Film Festival in 2009.
Education
Zimbalist pursued his higher education at the prestigious Yale University, where he had initially planned to study art but later transitioned into the drama program. This educational foundation played a significant role in shaping his versatile skills as an actor, paving the way for his successful career in film and television.
Zimbalist boarded at St. Paul's School in Concord, New Hampshire, taking part in school plays. He briefly attended Yale University but was expelled, reinstated and expelled a second time on account of low grades. He moved back to New York City in 1936 to work as a page for NBC radio where he had small on-air roles as well as presenting shows.
He furthered his acting training at Neighborhood Playhouse before serving in the United States Army during World War II, where he became friends with writer and director Garson Kanin.
