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The Importance Of Being Ernest: The Life of Actor Jim Varney
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Ernest, the lovable blue-collar buffoon, was a staple of pop culture in countless commercials, nearly a dozen movies and an award-winning Saturday-morning TV show. Today, millions of fans still mourn the loss of actor Jim Varney, who portrayed Ernest and who died at age 50 in 2000 of cancer. Ernest fans are finally getting the biography they have been waiting for in this comprehensive work by Jim’s nephew, Justin Lloyd. “The Importance of Being Ernest: The Life of Actor Jim Varney” traces Jim’s journey from a child in Lexington, Kentucky, with dreams of being a stage and film actor to becoming an iconic entertainment figure in the tradition of Charlie Chaplin’s “The Little Tramp.”
The book is based on numerous interviews with family members and intimates of Jim who have never spoken publicly before about what drove the actor and how he overcame many personal and professional obstacles to attain success. But with that success came a price: Jim longed for stage and film roles beyond Ernest, and they were difficult to come by because of his symbiosis with the character. Yet Jim persevered, ultimately winning major movie roles such as Jed Clampett in “The Beverly Hillbillies” and (the voice of) Slinky Dog in the first two “Toy Story” films. The book also explores the genius of the small Nashville advertising agency that created Ernest and how it spread his popularity decades before “going viral” became associated with achieving global stardom.
Even at the height of his career, Jim never forgot he was a descendant of Appalachian coal miners, and he remained true to his values, his friends and his family. Jim always strove for authenticity and humanity inside his hillbilly humor, endearing him to fans from every walk of life. “The Importance of Being Ernest: The Life of Actor Jim Varney” documents the life of an unforgettable figure in American comedy whose legacy endures today.
The book is based on numerous interviews with family members and intimates of Jim who have never spoken publicly before about what drove the actor and how he overcame many personal and professional obstacles to attain success. But with that success came a price: Jim longed for stage and film roles beyond Ernest, and they were difficult to come by because of his symbiosis with the character. Yet Jim persevered, ultimately winning major movie roles such as Jed Clampett in “The Beverly Hillbillies” and (the voice of) Slinky Dog in the first two “Toy Story” films. The book also explores the genius of the small Nashville advertising agency that created Ernest and how it spread his popularity decades before “going viral” became associated with achieving global stardom.
Even at the height of his career, Jim never forgot he was a descendant of Appalachian coal miners, and he remained true to his values, his friends and his family. Jim always strove for authenticity and humanity inside his hillbilly humor, endearing him to fans from every walk of life. “The Importance of Being Ernest: The Life of Actor Jim Varney” documents the life of an unforgettable figure in American comedy whose legacy endures today.
- GenresBiographyNonfiction
290 pages, Paperback
First published December 5, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
February 3, 2022
Justin Lloyd does the memory of the late Jim Varney a service in this much-needed tribute to his uncle. Ernest P. Worrell was such an iconic character, his films threaten to diminish the real man behind them - a rather earnest and ambitious actor, with real depth.
Its a fine book, written with obvious affection, warmth and enthusiasm. And not a little respect for its subject. A strength, that also is a slight weakness. There's little formal criticism of the creative output of Varney himself, only passing reference to some of Varney's interesting human failings - self-medicating with alcohol, life-long depression. There's little exploration of the romantic relationships in Varney's life either. All things that flesh out the man.
There is plenty of potential for a revised edition, or another biography from someone more removed (though whether the later would ever happen is another question entirely). In the decade since the book was written, it has itself provided much joy and insight for Varney's fans; the fan community itself has expanded, and hopefully for the family, more healing from their loss.
I came away with questions, but I also came away with a new respect and understanding for Jim Varney himself, and that's entirely thanks to Lloyd's efforts.
Its a fine book, written with obvious affection, warmth and enthusiasm. And not a little respect for its subject. A strength, that also is a slight weakness. There's little formal criticism of the creative output of Varney himself, only passing reference to some of Varney's interesting human failings - self-medicating with alcohol, life-long depression. There's little exploration of the romantic relationships in Varney's life either. All things that flesh out the man.
There is plenty of potential for a revised edition, or another biography from someone more removed (though whether the later would ever happen is another question entirely). In the decade since the book was written, it has itself provided much joy and insight for Varney's fans; the fan community itself has expanded, and hopefully for the family, more healing from their loss.
I came away with questions, but I also came away with a new respect and understanding for Jim Varney himself, and that's entirely thanks to Lloyd's efforts.
June 18, 2019
I wanted to like this book more than I actually did. It held my interest, but it was dry in spots (and Justin Lloyd's writing voice is a little rough). What it did offer me, though, was a glimpse of a very human Jim Varney, who dealt with depression much of his life and was loved by many. It's really too bad he felt trapped by his role as Ernest and it would have been interesting to see him branch out more, but I still have fond memories of watching those films growing up. I remember my dad reading me an article in the newspaper about Jim Varney, shortly after he'd died. Because that memory is so vivid to me I associate Varney with my dad, who I lost when I was 15 and miss very much. And for that, this book deserves at least three stars. Definitely recommended for big fans of Ernest, though Jim Varney would have wanted them to know he was capable of so much more.
August 10, 2020
Great Book, Know What I Mean?
If you grew up watching Ernest Powertools Worrell like I did then you should read this book. I always wondered about the man behind the comedy and it turns out he was a very interesting individual who was more talented than most of us ever knew. This book was written by Jim Varney’s nephew and gives an in-depth look at Jim’s early life, his rise to fame, and his struggles to break type as an actor. This book with written with skill and with an obvious love for the man it focuses on. Recommend.
If you grew up watching Ernest Powertools Worrell like I did then you should read this book. I always wondered about the man behind the comedy and it turns out he was a very interesting individual who was more talented than most of us ever knew. This book was written by Jim Varney’s nephew and gives an in-depth look at Jim’s early life, his rise to fame, and his struggles to break type as an actor. This book with written with skill and with an obvious love for the man it focuses on. Recommend.
July 14, 2020
I'm an Ernest fan, so I was delighted to find out "stuff that even Vern doesn't know." This book details Jim Varney's early passion for acting and how he spent a lifetime perfecting those skills. The most admirable trait you see in Jim over and over is the drive to put in the long hours and the hard work to get it right. Fans have seen his numerous commercials and kid-friendly movies. Few people know that he started out in stage productions, and that he was involved with charities. Jim Varney was an all around fascinating actor. Kudos to Justin Lloyd for writing Jim's story. "Know whut I mean Vern?"
August 15, 2025
a wonderful look at the life of Jim Varney written by his nephew. Jim struggles with trying to prove he could act beyond the beloved Ernest P Worrell character. He finally pulled it off with Beverly Hillbillies and Toy Story, while continuing to make commercials as Ernest. He had boundless energy and lots of hobbies he relentlessly pursued. He was taken from us far too early. Highly recommend. Know Whut I Mean?
June 26, 2025
Great and easy read about a legendary actor.
April 12, 2019
Today, I finished The Importance of Being Ernest: The Life of Actor Jim Varney. Justin Lloyd (Jim's nephew) paints such a beautiful picture of Jim Varney. He was a fascinating, complex man, much more than the simple, bumbling Ernest character we all knew and loved. The book does an amazing job of portraying him as the full human being that he was, warts and all. It celebrates his passions and interests, talks about his struggles, and gives keen insight into the life of a man who became a cultural icon. Lloyd details his successes and failures, hopes, dreams, and more. Shortly before his death, Varney told someone, "It's been a great adventure." Fans of Varney's are indebted to Justin Lloyd for allowing us to learn all about Jim's great adventure.
February 22, 2024
It's difficult to review a book about a celebrity written by one of their family members. I feel for the author who tries to honor the legacy of his uncle. And to be fair, for an amateur, he does a good job of helping us gain information on all the different roles Jim Varney played, details of a few close friendships, and a sliver of insight into what made him tick. I appreciate the effort made, I learned much I didn't know, and I'm glad I read the book.
However, there's a lack of depth to the proceedings that makes it all feel like the tip of the iceberg. The author hedges some bets that might have caused concern. For example, was Varney in some way an occultist or a Christian? We learn he gave presents with mystical symbolism, he was fascinated with paganism, yet at the end we hear he read his Bible, particularly at the end of his life. What were his true feelings? Unstated.
In other places, there's a lack of information that surely could have been uncovered with more interviews. For example, most of us recognize Ernest Saves Christmas as the pinnacle of the franchise. (The book does too.) What was he like on-set? What effect (if any) did Disney money play in its making? Did anyone realize while making the film that they had something fundamentally better going on here? Again, mostly crickets. I realize that 25 years after the fact, many of the actors had either died or were out of the business. Still, as a fan, it would be nice to have something more about what has become a holiday classic...and why the rest of the films aren't even remotely as good.
I know there is a book out by John Cherry that gets a bit more into Varney's personal issues, but reviews there are also mixed, as it seems Cherry had ego enough for both of them. I don't know if we'll ever get a deeper portrait of this Lexington, KY legend, but for those of us who grew up as fans, we can only hope so as we enjoy this good book that unfortunately comes up just a little short.
However, there's a lack of depth to the proceedings that makes it all feel like the tip of the iceberg. The author hedges some bets that might have caused concern. For example, was Varney in some way an occultist or a Christian? We learn he gave presents with mystical symbolism, he was fascinated with paganism, yet at the end we hear he read his Bible, particularly at the end of his life. What were his true feelings? Unstated.
In other places, there's a lack of information that surely could have been uncovered with more interviews. For example, most of us recognize Ernest Saves Christmas as the pinnacle of the franchise. (The book does too.) What was he like on-set? What effect (if any) did Disney money play in its making? Did anyone realize while making the film that they had something fundamentally better going on here? Again, mostly crickets. I realize that 25 years after the fact, many of the actors had either died or were out of the business. Still, as a fan, it would be nice to have something more about what has become a holiday classic...and why the rest of the films aren't even remotely as good.
I know there is a book out by John Cherry that gets a bit more into Varney's personal issues, but reviews there are also mixed, as it seems Cherry had ego enough for both of them. I don't know if we'll ever get a deeper portrait of this Lexington, KY legend, but for those of us who grew up as fans, we can only hope so as we enjoy this good book that unfortunately comes up just a little short.
February 8, 2024
I grew up with the Ernest movies. As a result, I developed a keen interest in the bumbling character we came to so enjoy watching and the man behind this character's portrayal. My interest in knowing more about the man responsible for bringing Ernest P Worrell to life was always fairly superficial, but never passed entirely from my subconscious and remained an item on my agenda to eventually check off. And so I knew I'd always eventually spend some time learning more about the actor. My lingering interest is most probably owing in particular to Jim Varney's much-too-early passing, eventually losing his battle to lung cancer. Something recently retriggered my interest in knowing more about the man behind the character and so I sought out a biography that would fill in some of the details. I chose this one because the author is a relative of Jim Varney and so I figured the information would be about as accurate as one could hope, and much more personal to boot. I was pleased to find that to be the case in what ended up being a very enjoyable read. The writing was not The stuff of Pulitzer prizes, but that's not a knock on the author at all. The writing itself is the reason for the four stars, but the story is worth a full five. This won't be true for everyone of course and it probably is for me because of my childhood connection with the character. But that's true of so much in life. Perspective and experience make life what it is. So for my two cents, this was my perspective and my experience, reading this biography of a truly fascinating human being named Jim Varney.
July 22, 2025
I'm a huge fan of Jim Varney, ranging from Ernest to Bubba to Jed Clampett to the Slinky Dog and even his lesser-known roles.
I've wanted to read this book for years, and when I saw a trailer for an upcoming documentary, which shares the title of this book, I figured it was time.
It's not the easiest read. It's riddled with grammatical mistakes which stopped the flow of the writing. There are also a few glaring inaccuracies that I caught, one involving a retelling of the plot for "Ernest Scared Stupid." I have to wonder what inaccuracies I missed. There are also a lot of instances where we go off on subjects mentioned, but which have little to do with Jim Varney's life or career.
But its also clearly a passion project by the author - who is Jim Varney's nephew (and producer of the aforementioned documentary bearing this book's title). I suspect this began as a book for relatives (the first couple chapters deal with family history going back to the 1800s) and Justin Lloyd realized that fans of Jim Varney would be interested in learning more about him.
Due to the obvious passion put into this project, I have to respect it. It wasn't the best book I've ever read, but I'm glad I did read it, and am looking forward to the documentary.
I've wanted to read this book for years, and when I saw a trailer for an upcoming documentary, which shares the title of this book, I figured it was time.
It's not the easiest read. It's riddled with grammatical mistakes which stopped the flow of the writing. There are also a few glaring inaccuracies that I caught, one involving a retelling of the plot for "Ernest Scared Stupid." I have to wonder what inaccuracies I missed. There are also a lot of instances where we go off on subjects mentioned, but which have little to do with Jim Varney's life or career.
But its also clearly a passion project by the author - who is Jim Varney's nephew (and producer of the aforementioned documentary bearing this book's title). I suspect this began as a book for relatives (the first couple chapters deal with family history going back to the 1800s) and Justin Lloyd realized that fans of Jim Varney would be interested in learning more about him.
Due to the obvious passion put into this project, I have to respect it. It wasn't the best book I've ever read, but I'm glad I did read it, and am looking forward to the documentary.
March 29, 2021
A lovely little ode to the great Jim Varney by one of his nephews. The generally course, rough draft feel of the writing can be overlooked, and might actually be commendable as it gives the proceedings a genuine and earnest (pun obviously intended) feeling. The highlights of the book are probably author Justin Lloyd’s firsthand recollections of Varney, though he does an admirable job tracing Varney’s upbringing, early love/obsession with acting, and his eventual breakout as immortal pitch-stooge Ernest P Worrell.
Varney’s sheer output as Ernest is the stuff of legends- over the course of about 15 years Varney and partner John Cherry made thousands of regional commercials (filming up to 16 in a single day, with Varney memorizing the scripts almost on the spot) and nine films. Special attention is given to Varney’s frustrations with escaping typecasting and crossing over to more serious roles- few of those roles started to materialize before his tragic death to lung cancer in 2000.
As a solid piece of family lore- and a good source of Ernest-related anecdotes for fans- Lloyd’s book is worth picking up for those interested in one of America’s true working class heroes.
Varney’s sheer output as Ernest is the stuff of legends- over the course of about 15 years Varney and partner John Cherry made thousands of regional commercials (filming up to 16 in a single day, with Varney memorizing the scripts almost on the spot) and nine films. Special attention is given to Varney’s frustrations with escaping typecasting and crossing over to more serious roles- few of those roles started to materialize before his tragic death to lung cancer in 2000.
As a solid piece of family lore- and a good source of Ernest-related anecdotes for fans- Lloyd’s book is worth picking up for those interested in one of America’s true working class heroes.
September 22, 2023
Jim Varney was a strangely big part of my life growing up. Ernest Goes to Camp and Ernest Goes to Jail (and Ernest Saves Christmas, to a lesser extent) were among my favorite movies when I was a kid. So hearing about Paul Reubens's passing a few months ago send me down a Pee Wee and Ernest rabbit hole.
It was nice to learn that Jim's nephew had self-published this book a few years ago. So I was able to read it and learn more about Jim. The most compelling parts, in my opinion, were when Justin, the author, gave personal insights about his uncle. You can tell he is still much-loved by family and fans. At least from watching old interviews and from reading this book, Jim seemed like a nice, humble man. It was fun to revisit his legacy a bit from reading this book. I only marked it down because the writing is a bit clunky at parts. But Justin is genuine in his love and admiration for his uncle Jim and it shows.
It was nice to learn that Jim's nephew had self-published this book a few years ago. So I was able to read it and learn more about Jim. The most compelling parts, in my opinion, were when Justin, the author, gave personal insights about his uncle. You can tell he is still much-loved by family and fans. At least from watching old interviews and from reading this book, Jim seemed like a nice, humble man. It was fun to revisit his legacy a bit from reading this book. I only marked it down because the writing is a bit clunky at parts. But Justin is genuine in his love and admiration for his uncle Jim and it shows.
February 5, 2024
The writing was a little rough around the edges, but I quickly realized that it didn't really matter. Justin was doing a great job of telling the story of his uncle, beloved figure who died just as he was making strides in achieving his own personal goals. I really appreciate Jim's story being told by someone who knew him at his best and worst, giving you an accurate and personal telling. By these accounts Jim was a great guy that started chain smoking at 13 and worked tirelessly to provide for his family, buy Rolex's and knives, and dreamed to one day break out in his field that he loved.
Since Jim never does achieve his dream, the final chapter leaves you with quite a depressing feeling, something Jim didn't realize he was fighting with for the majority of his life.
A sad ending but an informative and compelling ride, I cant recommend this biography enough.
Since Jim never does achieve his dream, the final chapter leaves you with quite a depressing feeling, something Jim didn't realize he was fighting with for the majority of his life.
A sad ending but an informative and compelling ride, I cant recommend this biography enough.
October 9, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I already knew that Jim Varney was so much more than just "that Ernest guy" when it came to acting skills, but I learned so much more about him that I never knew, such as his talents for music and songwriting. The book is written by his nephew, who did a wonderful job; he described Jim so well and in such complete, heartwarming detail, I almost feel like I knew him personally. Even though that (sadly) isn't the case, reading about his passing & his funeral still brought tears to my eyes, a lump in my throat, and a smile to my face, all at the same time. I really, really wish I could have known him.
August 22, 2022
This book probably deserves more than 3.5 stars, but less than 4. Because it's my main man, Ernest we're talking here, I give the benefit of the doubt. The book is good and a simple read. It doesn't quite seem to focus on as much of the later years, glossing over much of Varney's later life with quick movie plot synopses and anecdotes to follow. The research sometimes seems incomplete, and I wonder if the book were handled by a biographer that wasn't related to Varney, would there have been more depth?
Still, it's a good read for fans of Jim Varney. It engages and tells the man's story.
Still, it's a good read for fans of Jim Varney. It engages and tells the man's story.
July 24, 2017
Who doesn't love Ernest!!!!
I grew up watching the movies and the Saturday morning show! It was so inspiring to read and to know he had bigger goals and to see him in those non-Ernest roles and to know he can do more!!! Just read about his family and where he can from just opened more doors for me!!
I grew up watching the movies and the Saturday morning show! It was so inspiring to read and to know he had bigger goals and to see him in those non-Ernest roles and to know he can do more!!! Just read about his family and where he can from just opened more doors for me!!
March 17, 2020
I bought this book because as a child I loved Ernest P Worrell, this was such an interesting look into the life of Jim Varney. It brought tears to my eyes multiple times reading about his interests and dreams and charitable work. It was very heartening to know that he remained the same man through it all.
Jim Varney was and still is a vastly underrated actor and comedian.
Jim Varney was and still is a vastly underrated actor and comedian.
February 25, 2024
Overly Detailed and Needs Transitions
I tried, but gave up after a few chapters. The author needs to improve paragraph development and planning. Rather, it follows a broken line. Also, it goes into painstaking detail about his family tree etc. I just wanted to hear about Jim’s life, in a lighthearted manner.
I tried, but gave up after a few chapters. The author needs to improve paragraph development and planning. Rather, it follows a broken line. Also, it goes into painstaking detail about his family tree etc. I just wanted to hear about Jim’s life, in a lighthearted manner.
April 17, 2018
I always enjoyed Ernest and my husband has been a huge fan. Enjoyed hearing stories we would never had heard otherwise. We are planning a trip to visit some of the places mentioned. Glad his family member wrote this book.
May 28, 2018
It's written by his nephew so it's not exactly impartial, but still a fascinating look at one of my childhood favorites. I grew up watching Ernest sell ice cream, go to camp, save Christmas and fight trolls. He was just getting started when he died of cancer. He was only 50 :-(
July 20, 2018
I grew up with the Ernest Commercials and Movies. This was truly a beautiful book and told his life story that I would have never known. Well written and I loved the family pictures.
Jim Varney still makes me smile to this day and he is missed
Jim Varney still makes me smile to this day and he is missed
March 7, 2024
I knew nothing about this man and now I do. He was an interesting individual. It’s sad that he died right around the time his career seemed to be taking off after being type cast as Ernest for so long.
October 3, 2020
An amazing look into the life of Jim Varney, my favorite Shakespearean actor of all time.
December 24, 2022
Brought back a lot of great memories.
December 25, 2022
Really enjoyed reading this. Would definitely recommend this to anyone who loves Jim Varney.
January 27, 2024
5 stars for Jim, but 3.5 for the book. It felt choppy at times. Some details were lengthy and didn’t lend to story of Jim for me. But I appreciated learning more about the man behind Ernest.
February 16, 2024
I really enjoyed reading about Ernest. Seems like he was a great guy in real life outside of acting.
February 18, 2024
A very interesting glimpse into the life of Jim Varney.
March 23, 2024
An interesting read! If you loved his "Ernest" then you'll love reading this!
His comedy & humour is still very much missed!
Thank you for the Memories!
His comedy & humour is still very much missed!
Thank you for the Memories!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews