Jim Varney | The Original Viral Star | A Docu-Mini

[@HatsOffEntertainment]

Thanks for taking the time to check out our videos! If you enjoyed this video, be sure to check out the rest of our documentary shorts. If you have an idea or suggestion for future episodes, I'd love to hear it! Please consider supporting us over at Patreon: www.patreon.com/hatsoffentertainment

[@RonieDoll]

Thank you! I was doing an internet search to find him. I didn't know he passed.

[@themacocko6311]

Thank you. At least once a year I look him up. Also, Hot rod Lincoln at the end, the famous guitar player in my hometown came up with that lick.

[@matthewlinson9905]

I definitely will. BTW, do you print copies of your short documentaries? This one would be awesome to have.

[@jessstuart7495]

Dr. Otto and the Riddle of the Gloom Beam

[@14379414]

He will always be Virgil Simms to me (from Fernwood Tonight with Martin Mull), jumping cars in a Winnebago ....

[@Redrockstar2011]

I am Jim’s niece. I spent almost every weekend with him at his home in Tennessee after his diagnosis. I learned so much about him and the vast majority of that time, Jim was pretty healthy. We had great talks, great meals I cooked for him (usually chicken stir-fry) and I was blessed to have him as my uncle. I think of him every day and have dreams about him often. I feel very fortunate to have gotten to know him so well.

[@theknave4415]

He had a positive impact upon people's lives that cannot be under-represented or idly dismissed. ;) I'm glad you had the time to get to know him better, before he left. ;)

[@danbam3411]

Your uncle was a wonderful person and left a piece of timeless memories to me, being a 90s child. Bless you all ❤️

[@Akihito007]

Your uncle was a great actor and we loved him here in TN and still do! He was so good in Daddy and Them as well.

[@internziko]

God bless you and your family. Rip to your wonderful uncle

[@spotnickdacatdacat2172]

Wow

[@Bluechief6]

Renting Ernest movies from blockbuster was such a fond memory of my childhood

[@bigbay1159]

Ahh man the memories on that one hit really hard.

[@qutie424]

When Roses stores had their 99 cent movie section. Best part of the 90s!

[@leriusdoman1013]

Yeah good childhood memory for sure!

[@btn011486]

We have a local video store and that does rentals always packed with people. Great for a nostalgia itch

[@stentor9640]

Ernest goes to jail was the best because we got EVIL Ernest

[@kyrilascully7828]

I was so proud of our Jimbo. He was my cousin's best friend from elemetary school and we would run through the woods in Lexington playing around the creek, or in the winter buidling igloos in the Baptist Church parking lot and sliding down the hill on our sleds. They ended up going to UK together and then hitchhiked to Los Angeles just before my cousin got called up in the Vietnam lottery. He used to joke that we weren't hillbillies---we were hill-Williams. Ironically, both my cousin and Jimbo got cancer around the same time and died a month apart. I sure miss him.

[@KimBlaQue]

May Jim and your cousin continue to rest in peace 🕊🙏🏾

[@wallyrocket87]

Glad people still talk about Jim, he is a legend.

[@-be-blank-]

Mike Rowe from dirty jobs should do a tribute to Jim Varney

[@derek-64]

you better believe it. although what's a shame is stores in my area never carrey Ernest movies. around christmas they NEVER carry Ernest Saves Christmas. nor do they carry Ernest Scared Stupid around halloween. these are my 2 favorites as well as classic holiday movies that don't quite get the recognition they deserve.

[@BrokenCornholio1537]

@@derek-64 Might just be me, but it seems like Ernest took a lot of cues from the three stooges in terms of humor. While not quite as slapstick, if you look at some of the sequences in the movies. It feels very familiar to some of the skits the stooges did back in the day. It's not ripping them off by any means, but you can see the possible influence. I think what really held the movies up was the decent amount of balance Ernest had. The movies at their core was all about goofy humor, sure. But it knew when to take a break so it didn't become too overbearing.

[@BrokenCornholio1537]

@@-be-blank- Mike Rowe, another cool guy.

[@derek-64]

@@BrokenCornholio1537 regardless of the type of humor it is these movies still deserve more recognition

[@69SalterStreet]

I always appreciated how he never smoked in public so kids didn't think smoking was cool. Legend.

[@truesoulghost2777]

Got to respect that.

[@Perfection_Personified]

That's respectful and impressive to have that kind of willpower.

[@davidvondoom2853]

Considering what took him out, I'm glad he didn't promote smoking. I guess that was his way of fighting back. A true gentleman and a scholar.

[@dreamman5588]

Talk about a good man

[@heretomakeyousalty6126]

69SalterStreet not true XD he smoked at bus stops n such, those are public.

[@roysekulich5763]

I was stationed in Germany during Operation Desert Storm and my wife sent us a copy of Ernest goes to Jail. My NCO had a vcr so we gathered at his quarters and watched that movie together and it was one of the funniest things we had ever seen. I still remember the bunch of us gathered in his room laughing our tails off. I was a fan of his films ever since.

[@jwavada]

Ernest Goes To Jail has always been my favorite of the Ernest movies.

[@grandcreator11]

My favorite Ernest film

[@lynch42o]

I do miss the simpler times indeed.

[@scottydu81]

The man behind me yelling “he’s chewing on it again!” as Ernest’s pen explodes in his mouth is one of my core memories 😂

[@MikeyPierce-vc8pp]

What a combination

[@msminmichigan]

Varney was a lifelong smoker and always struggled with the addiction that eventually cost him his life. However, he never smoked in the Ernest movies and was very careful to not be seen smoking in pictures because he took his responsibility as someone children looked up to very seriously. Before his passing he even filmed a series Ernest anti-smoking ads

[@threatassessment606]

I doubt it will change though

[@Tornado1994]

Actually, the Ernest Anti Smoking ad was filmed in August 1985.

[@theadmiral460]

@@threatassessment606 people are stressed more than ever plus we have several more ways to "smoke" these days compared to back then(cough cough vape legal cannabiis hookah- which arent new just more available than ever) ..you are correct It wont change (Im a cigar smoker myself)

[@greysky1252]

That would explain where he got his signature voice from.

[@trevertravis8963]

Just like Walt Disney.

[@TheChrisHype]

Nobody acknowledges just how perfect castingJim Varney as Jed Clampett was. It’s honesty right there with JK Simmons as Mr. Jameson to me.

[@Chebva]

Probably the best series to film casting ever

[@coreyfellows9420]

Man I forgot about that!!

[@coreyfellows9420]

@bigevilworldwide1 it hasn't gotten any better

[@scottydu81]

He was perfect, but that movie was… passable at best lol

[@retrospect]

Jim Varney, what a legend.

[@iammrbeat]

I literally grew up on Ernest. This explains why I am so wacky.

[@theeorehekchannel]

same here LOL

[@nittygritty7503]

Woody Woodpecker, Ernest, Pee Wee, and Drop Dead Fred; no wonder im such an asshole lol

[@wasnt_it]

literally

[@BSon-sj9uc]

Ya I'm watching this and I noticrd little things I do and now it explains lol.

[@Chebva]

You like what I like

[@waywardsage]

The Ernest films harken back to a day when live action kid friendly films didn't have to cost $100+ million dollars. Ernest was a legend!

[@robertlaube574]

IS, a legend not WAS.

[@Red_Lanterns_Rage]

on top of that the movies had depth and soul....they're silly and simple yet also make an important point without preaching it....

[@willsk7068]

I woulda loved a Jim Varney and Jim Carey flick. Woulda been crazy?

[@gabe_s_videos]

I miss "small" movies.

[@souljastation5463]

From what I got from this documentary his kind of character went out of style, the clips played here reminded me the movies of a legend of cinema like Jerry Lewis. It's strange that he's completely unknown outside the US.

[@PhoenixGamerxx96]

You forgot the fact that Disney recorded his voice in 1999 before he died a year later as the old prospector in Atlantis: The Lost Empire. Then again, Varney was the best actor that will forever change comedy forever.

[@ianmartinezcassmeyer]

A line of Jim's from that film always sticks with me: "I got your four basic food groups: beans, bacon, whiskey, and lard." Still makes me smile.

[@melissahughes4205]

@@ianmartinezcassmeyer Sy-lan-tro? What the cockadoodle is sy-lan-tro?

[@ComeAlongKay]

no way, that is crazy. I had no idea and now can totally hear it. I only saw a few of his films but definitely know him and he was a known entity. And that is one of my favorite films. That is so cool to know that.

[@ComeAlongKay]

@@ianmartinezcassmeyer mine was towards the end when he says the transmogrified thing.

[@paulwaterman1322]

​@ComeAlongKay "...You could say he went to pieces." "You COULD say he was trans-morg-afied and exploded into a thousand pieces--"

[@BongoVids]

I knew Jim. He was a TRULY funny person and could recite Shakespearian soliloquy at the drop of a hat... But he was also a great friend to talk to, to get advice from, and was the guy who would give you honest critique without being negative. I miss Jim, and ai think of him a lot... This was a fitting biography. Well done. 👏

[@hunterwyeth]

PopeBongo he’s the kind of guy who feels like a friend even though I never knew him outside of watching his movies. But you’re still lucky to have known him.

[@Chebva]

I always wondered what was his favorite gun or what caliber and gun he used hunting or so forth. Do you happen to know? He was so important to me in my teen years.

[@levisimpson516]

That's awesome, and good to hear. I remember reading once that he was the kind of person who could out talk you on any subject, which I took to mean he had a lot to say and knew a lot. I like the idea of him dropping Shakesperian Soliloquies on you.

[@BongoVids]

@Jonathan He could almost CALL to catfish 🤣

[@KendrickHarrisKenfinity]

Well what do you know about that! I could tell that Mr. Varney/Ernest was intelligent and an overall great person.

[@wildman2012]

My Earnest favorite line: "Now who would throw out a perfectly good dog?"

[@ct6502c]

oh man, I remember that!

[@Rumar11]

Rimshot!!!

[@Amzingred]

"someone with a runny nose is gonna die."

[@im_Spade_]

@@Amzingred looool I love that line

[@deletedwaffles]

"Ernest Scared Stupid" was constantly playing in my house when I was young. It's usually not people's favorite among the other Ernest movies but it holds a big spot in my heart. It was scary enough that it really spooked me as a kid but funny and wholesome enough that it didn't give me any nightmares. Jim made that movie into something special that I don't think any other actor could do.

[@im_Spade_]

It's my favorite as well. I only saw that one (we had it on VHS) along with Ernest Goes to Camp and a little of Ernest Saves Christmas, and I wholeheartedly agree with you.

[@djangofett4879]

it's definitely not the best Earnest movie but the scenes with Jim varney are still hilarious. anytime he's not on screen though the movie is a little hard to watch

[@CaptainSouthbird]

For a while it was an annual tradition of my family to play "Ernest Saves Christmas" at the end of the year along with "It's a Wonderful Life." Ernest movies were a huge part of my childhood. Goes to Jail was probably the runner-up in terms of repeat viewing, for whatever reason. Interestingly, kind of related to the video mentioning its lack of exposure, I didn't really remember Rides Again, although I immediately recognized the theme song when I heard it. I think I've seen all of the Ernest movies at some point, but I really should go back and watch all of them again.

[@robkrieg8301]

Its my favorite too

[@animefrasier]

In the 90s it wasn't but as 90s kids myself included myself grown up most think that was his best film he put in his best work but also. The whole team who had to make and use the troll suits and sets I am just happy. I dont have nightmares anymore about trantor anymore lol

[@Xerrill]

"I came, I saw, I got blowed up." No matter what anyone says, I love these movies.

[@battlecross8540]

"I didn't have four fathers I just had one but I didn't know him that well!" 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 That slays me today!

[@miakhalifa5952]

I am Jim’s niece. I spent almost every weekend with him at his home in Tennessee after his diagnosis. I learned so much about him and the vast majority of that time, Jim was pretty healthy. We had great talks, great meals I cooked for him (usually chicken stir-fry) and I was blessed to have him as my uncle. I think of him every day and have dreams about him often. I feel very fortunate to have gotten to know him so well.

[@scalderiso]

Ernest goes to camp and scared stoopid are childhood classics

[@user-iy2ju1wj3r]

as a 90s kid who loved ernest movies, but wasn't around for the commercials, i now know who vern was, i can die happy.

[@kingchuckfinley]

Same!

[@jonc.m8717]

Vern was in some of the movies.

[@funkyweapon1981]

I remember the commercials. I was born in '81, so that's probably why.

[@funkyweapon1981]

@@jonc.m8717 But you never saw him.

[@danielcadwell9812]

@@funkyweapon1981 I was born in '83 and have no memory of any commercials with him.

[@penguinmcswaggn2936]

Jim/Ernest is the reason I say “you know what I mean” so much, I had all the Ernest movies as a kid and played them while I drifted off to sleep on an old tv that could crush a small car with a ten year old box fan in the corner of a rusty trailer in the backwoods of North Carolina. Jim helped bring some joy and humor too a difficult life and my family would always stay up late watching any one of the Ernest movies. He left this world too soon but I’ll always remember him for how he helped keep smiles on my families faces even through the worst times, now I’m all grown up and have got a good paying job and my parents are retired and living comfortably, my bother and sister are both well off and have started families of their own and we all live not ten minutes apart and see each other often and soon I’ll have my own child and you can bet I’ll make sure they watch all the Ernest movies while growing up

[@im_Spade_]

What an amazing story, I love that. God bless.

[@staceyjordan872]

I also grew up in a trailer in North Carolina even though we were poor we were happy

[@ProtomanButCallMeBlues]

I remember hearing him in Toy Story, and just immediately found it the friendliest smoker voice, to this day that I've ever heard. He felt like that whacky uncle that always gets into trouble, but he's always the one that bought the kids the biggest christmas presents.

[@warpdrivefueledbyinsomnia8165]

As a kid growing up in Tennessee in the 90s and 00s, I can tell you that the man was an institution. He seemed like a good dude. He's definitely missed.

[@TheRealDrJoey]

I ran "Ernest Goes To Jail" as a projectionist, and I remember thinking when I watched him what untapped potential he had as an actor. He could have played villain's EXTREMELY well, IMO. It seems to me that when I read his obit, it said he'd actually done some Shakespeare. And he was just excellent as Jed Clampett, too--made the whole movie work. It's a shame he died so young.

[@djangofett4879]

yeah, its a shame he didnt do more dramatic roles. you look at Gailard Sartain (chuck from the first few Earnest movies) he was primarily a dramatic actor who did some comedy and Jim had that same potential for sure.

[@Isaiah-ft5nx]

He would have been a great villain in a weird hillbilly horror.

[@jacobsoper4708]

Varney was genuinely excellent in Beverly Hillbillies. One of the more striking aspects of his performance is that he's in a comedy, but he's not playing a stereotypical funnyman that a lot of people would associate him with. Jed is a very sincere father figure out of his depth in the big city. Most of the laughs come from his good natured naivety.

[@estott3647]

@Jacob Soper Jed was the role that brought me around on him. The dance scene in the Hillbillies was excellent.

[@rubenrodriguez3164]

oh wow, that's a memory I've not accessed in a while. He was superb in every way an actor could be.

[@thirdgen377]

The man truly was a legend in his own right. I consider myself fortunate to have had the chance to grow up as a fan during his career. Never turned down any show or conversation that included Jim Varney and I will keep watching those low budget films and all his greats from best to worst until I'm dead. When I have kids you will be introduced to them, Mr. Varney.

[@thirdgen377]

Obviously, I grew up knowing his Ernest P. Worrell character, but his role as Jed remains legendary in my world. It's so strangely heartwarming to see him in a comedy yet his entire purpose was to not be outwardly funny in any way. He was beyond brilliant, even in the most awkward scenes he always managed to own them and make them memorable. Jim Varney is a legend and deserves recognition through the ages

[@jeremylevie2263]

@@thirdgen377 lovelier words have never been spoken. You legitimately brought a tear to my eye with this comment.

[@AlexReynard]

I watched Ernest Goes To Jail a few years ago, and he's seriously amazing at it. Specifically, playing his evil twin with such amazingly uncharacteristic _loathsomeness._ No humor, just a cold, ugly, mean snake of a man. I got the feeling he probably built the character from rotten businessmen he'd observed, because he played him like 'I hate this type of person so much, I really want you to hate him too.' Good even when he's bad. Jim was great.

[@TheRealDrJoey]

Couldn't agree more. As I mentioned in another comment, I ran that film as a projectionist, and my takeaway regarding his evil twin was exactly as you have written here. I think the world only got a passing glimpse at what he was capable of as an actor.

[@flynnfirebornofficial]

@@TheRealDrJoey I love that film. It must have been amazing to see it during its theatrical release - especially from that perspective!

[@TheRealDrJoey]

@@flynnfirebornofficial My first exposure to Varney was when I was living in Nashville and he was doing great commercials for a car dealership.

[@Capnsensible80]

I've seen and heard nothing but good things about how kind and thoughtful Jim Varney was, even to total strangers. Truly a rare type of man and the world is a better place for him having been here.

[@protorhinocerator142]

And now the world is a bit more dark and gloomy without him.

[@kevinwhelan9607]

❤

[@aris9650]

Really is a shame. Hard to find an actor today that is as wholesome and brought joy to so many through childhood or could bring the whole family together. RIP Jim, you deserve the rest.

[@applejacks971]

"Know what I mean Vern?", classic line that fits every situation, know what I mean?

[@LouieNeira]

applejacks971 just FYI, it’s said as all one word... knowhutImean?

[@orwellianson]

I know what you mean, knowhudahmean?

[@cecelastname6362]

I can remember my daddy, who has been gone 20 years, quoting this all the time. Makes me smile and tear up at the same time. I'll always love Ernest 💕

[@roybatty9935]

Ernest never fails to warm my heart and remind me of simpler days. Need that more and more nowadays.

[@HomersIlliad]

Jim Varney: The only guy who made Robin WIlliams be the straight man.

[@rayvenkman2087]

Man. Imagine a film with him, Robin and John Candy together playing the parts of Id, Ego and Superego.

[@KookydohClown]

Did they play off one another's personalities before? If so, what movie? I'd like to see that!🤩

[@BanCorporateOwnedHouses]

Shit dude, I really miss him. He was such an integral part of my childhood.

[@rlh1984]

The joke Ernest title on The Simpsons, “Ernest Goes Somewhere Cheap” is even funnier thanks to what I learned here.

[@Belgand]

They would also go even more directly for the jugular with "Ernest Goes Direct to Video". Ow.

[@KasumiKenshirou]

@@Belgand There was also "Ernest Needs a Kidney". And Jim Varney played a carny in one episode.

[@linezero3]

I'm an Arab from the UAE, when I was a kid we use to play his movies on repeat especially trolls movie he was a big part of my childhood, it's been 20years since I heard of his work until this video showed up . THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART FOR UPLOADING THIS!

[@actionstudios9502]

Did u know he died before this video came out?

[@darrellwetzeljr.1886]

So sad we never got to see an Ernest meets Mr. Bean movie

[@diaborosyuzuha9865]

The definition of legendary.

[@Bootube3859]

This comment just blew my mind

[@lolindirlink]

Throw Ace Ventura in the mix as well! Agree? AALLLRIGHTY THEN!

[@TafTabTah]

I dont think reality would've been able to handle that collaboration

[@lolindirlink]

@@TafTabTah Realistically speaking: Reality would cease to exist with these guys XD

[@krude-ck3wy]

I'm from south london, England and Ernest was a great part of my childhood, i watched every film many times. Goes to jail and scared stupid were my favourite

[@yotsubafanfan]

My Mom ran into Jim Varney while at a mall when she lived in Louisville back in the 1980's. According to her he was super down to Earth, goofy, kind, and to the surprise of many who hear this story... a genius. (Like MENSA levels of smart.) He also was briefly a Shakespearean actor too. Whenever something happens that makes my state look bad all I have to do is remember that Abe Lincoln and Jim Varney were born here and I instantly feel proud to be a Kentuckian again.

[@HatsOffEntertainment]

Great story. Thanks for sharing!

[@thepayne7862]

Kentuckian here as well didn't realize Jim Varney was born in Lexington

[@reuelchinthala]

Don’t forget kfc!

[@cult_of_odin]

Wouldn't be to proud of the tyrant Lincoln but Jim is a national treasure

[@Dermetsu]

@@cult_of_odin tyrant, I needed that laugh lmao. I guess you're one of those "muh states rights to own other humans should never have been infringed on", people.

[@Irishfrasa]

He was my hero as a child, when I learned he passed away I cried for days. I'll never forget the time I had a dream he took me fishing, it was therapeutic, helped me move on from the sadness.

[@kerisbule]

When I was a teenager my mother took me to an Ernest movie after a sad time in our lives. We went for ice cream afterwards. It's really no big deal now but some things you just don't forget.

[@FlutterMouse]

I thought I was the weirdo for being obsessed with Ernest as a childand😆

[@kalebpinkston3495]

I understand. I loved his films as a boy. I think there’s more than just humor that attracts us to the character. I think it’s the charisma and some relatability about him

[@TwoBs]

I had so many of his movies growing up and watched The Beverly Hillbillies VHS so many times I wore the ribbon out. Loved him as Jed and couldn’t picture anyone else playing that role any better. I reckon you done what you done because you didn’t know we was who we was. He was one of a kind and I wish Hollywood had more like him.

[@hshager5548]

At age 70 I still love the Ernest movies even more than my kids and grandkids do. (My wife thinks my sense of humor was arrested at age 12). Actually, I have always been impressed with Varney's talent and obvious intelligence behind dufus Ernest!

[@llaughton69]

I was told many years ago that growing old was mandatory, growing up is optional lol.

[@craiglopresto3322]

Never let that humor get any older!

[@ShanesTubes]

That's awesome. I'm 33 and my girlfriend hates that I still like Ernest, my daughter is indifferent. I hope when I'm 70 I have grandkids to convert.

[@robertlaube574]

@@ShanesTubes your girl sounds just awful.

[@teresasevy1563]

My sister's husband didn't like Ernest movies. They aren't together anymore. Just saying. 😘

[@landonletterman831]

Ernest was a living Loony Tune's character on screen. He embodied so much of cartoon slapstick, so perfectly, it's sad that his character was never immortalized in animated format as an honorary Loony Tune's character alongside the likes of Bugs Bunny or Daffy Duck

[@JanetStarChild]

It actually is surprising that they never made a cartoon series of Ernest. Hell, even Super Dave got his own cartoon. It should have been a no-brainer and could have been a spin-off from the live-action Saturday morning show.

[@droompa]

it will be

[@ai6894]

He got to voice the first "Toy Story" Slinky Dog. And he made appearances to Six Flags theme park. Alongside the WB universe.

[@DrewskisBrews]

From Ernest Rides Again: Dr. Melon: "Ernest! Are you dead?" E P. W: "I suppose I would be if I wasn't That Close to being an Actual Cartoon!"

[@matthewboyd68]

@@ai6894 he also voiced a carny in the golden age of the Simpsons

[@MidnightClubsSR]

R.I.P. Jim Varey....Thank you so much for giving us a great childhood

[@hattorihanzo2275]

I went to his grave in Lexington, KY. He was a staple of my childhood. I miss Jim and John Candy.

[@JSBeats85]

The court scene in Ernest Goes to Jail, is one of the funniest scenes I've ever seen. Sad loss of such a legend, but I'm glad his legacy lives on.

[@thebunnyfoofoo]

The leaking pen... “Oh no, I’m fine, thank you...” XD

[@Canuck204]

Growing up in the 80’s and 90’s, Ernest was a fan favourite. At school, when it was movie time once a week we all got super excited when they would play an Ernest movie. Guy made us all laugh, rest well Jim.

[@ledoughorton4558]

All these years later, I still find myself doing the Varney "ewwwwwwww" Loved every one of his movies. Legend.

[@kerisbule]

Mee toooeeeewwww!

[@Nomah1979]

I still do the Ernest laugh when he feels that he has bested some one or a situation right before something bad happens

[@andrewalbright4529]

I will never not call milk "miak". I miss this guy.

[@DueM]

i still pull this out to confused looks from everyone as well, glad i'm not the only one.

[@brandonbrunet2711]

@NPC#438382533 Bulgarian * pure Bulgarian miak

[@high_on_nightmares]

@@brandonbrunet2711 authentic*

[@coleowing]

Omg, I'm not the only one that does this... Always feels like my favorite joke nobody ever gets.

[@justinfalzon6854]

Authentic Bulgarian Miak. You didnt think I could get it this time of year did ya!?

[@iAmEbolaWoT]

Ernest P Worrell was my absolute favorite growing up. So much so that my Dad would ask me to repeat his commercials as often as possible. Then he would have me do things like...Do Ernest as Clint Eastwood...and such. He was my hero. Thank you Hats Off for doing this. It brought back a lot of good memories.

[@TheJulioGulio]

Ernest scaried stupid has the best underrated practical effects ever! the best in the series imo

[@johnrodriguez2608]

Yes, that's my favorite Ernest movie! 🙌

[@cameronriddle109]

The troll used to scare me so much when I was a kid!

[@homerhat420]

I had to leave the theater as a kid, too goddamn scary. Of course I showed it to my daughter as soon as she was able lol. She loved it.

[@nousername5864]

Turns out they reused several of the Alien Klowns costumes from Killer Klownz from Outerspace for the trolls. An interesting fact.

[@Rumar11]

Booger Lips..... EWWWWW!

[@jasonmoore587]

As a child of the 80's I was a huge Ernest fan, and "Ernest goes to Camp" was my favorite movie.

[@MLBlue30]

Right? As a little kid I would pop that movie into the VCR every day after coming home from school and laugh at all the stuff going on.

[@dickJohnsonpeter]

I actually cried when his turtle died.

[@therealsoulproduct]

Just like Pee-Wee back in the 80's and 90's, Ernest P. Worrell was a childhood entertainment hero of mine. May Jim Varney #RIP.

[@justj2440]

It gives me hope for humanity that jim Varney is recognized is vids like this. He was a talented and inquisitive man. And a staple of my childhood. Ernest Sared Stupid was life! Also Goes to Camp.

[@1971bdott]

I got to work with Jim on Rides Again and goes to school. What an incredibly talented man he was, he would break out into Shakespeare on the set just at the right moment for a laugh, but it was the most amazing performance of Shakespeare is what surprised the crew. He was as kind as he was talented and we lost him all to soon. ☹️

[@kevinwhelan9607]

❤

[@audumbmelody]

I cannot thank Jim enough for such a wonderful childhood. I found Ernest by chance through On Demand, my first Ernest P. Worrell movie being ‘Slam Dunk Ernest.’ After that, I couldn’t get enough, much to my mom’s dismay. I would have my dad go to my local library and rent VHS tapes and I would watch them on repeat. It was heartbreaking as a child to find out he passed away, knowing that this man who had brought me so much comfort and laughter was gone. I’m glad to see so many still love and appreciate him and miss him like I do. You are so missed Jim Varney!

[@McDougal23]

This dude was a part of my childhood. Scared Stupid was the Best!

[@jfitz]

Man, this hit me right in the feels. My pops always liked Ernest more than us and the characters like the big guy with the crazy eyes and the skinny dude who didn't talk were so hilarious. Never failed to make my pops slap his leg! I even got him the pull-string doll of Ernest with all his great lines. Thank you sincerely.

[@HatsOffEntertainment]

Thank you for watching!

[@ontologicallysteve7765]

@@minoreye9984 HaHaHaHa that's how I initially read it too. Had to do an "Ernest double take" and re-read it 3 times. I was like, dang---this dude chose Ernest over his own kids...now THAT'S a true fan. Lol

[@SinSynn]

My Pops used to slap his knees too. When we would goof about it, he would always laugh and say, 'Yessir! That's a humdinger and a knee slapper!' and he would slap his elbow and then his knee. Apparently slapping his elbow was a 'humdinger,' and well, the knee slapper is self explanatory. My pops was a character, lemme tell ya. Rest in Peace, Pops...hope you're 'Humdinger' and 'Knee Slappin' with Rodney Dangerfield (his favorite comedian) in Heaven. 😊

[@jfitz]

@@minoreye9984 he did :( We are all have Ernest as our middle names...

[@Machineius]

This was a great memorial of Jim's career. What a great and funny, talented guy.

[@onelifedental5607]

He was one of those artists to have made people both younger and older smile. Not just a "Gen X" or Gen Y or Gen Z comedian....someone for everybody.

[@AllenFreemanMediaGuru]

I met him in the late 80’s. He was hosting an event his mother organized in Frankfort KY. A fundraiser. I was a commercial artist hired to design the program to hand out at the event. They sent me his publicity packet of photos, and info. I drew him for the cover. At the event he told me how much he liked it and signed one for me!

[@Redrockstar2011]

Allen Freeman his mom (my grandma) actually didn’t organize it. It was a fashion show at the capital. I actually went to it. I think Martha Layne Collins organized it. Not sure.

[@Redrockstar2011]

Was it at the capital? My Grandmother(his mother) didn’t organize it. I remember being there with him. I think Martha Layne Collins was the governor then. Maybe?

[@mmisshannah]

This dude is the reason I grew up as goofy as I did. I loved watching all the movies but for some reason my favorite vhs was the one where he did a bunch of commercials. I'm so glad I was lucky enough to have him as an inspiration, great comedian and a great man.

[@tj_struck]

RIP Jim :( I loved watching his shows when I was a kid back in the 90's. If he was alive today he'd be 71.

[@JABarry1981]

I remember hearing the news of his death. I was 18 and in AIT for the US Army. Maybe with 2 weeks left, before being done with school. I thought about the kind of influence Jim Varney was on my childhood. Earnest goes to camp, being the first and the favorite. And still the song "Glad It's Raining", still brings tears to this Veterans eyes. I will tell my great grand children about Jim Varney one day. And how many times as a child he brought excitement, goofiness and sincerity. His character was always the first with Integrity. The first to charge into battle, though he wasn't the strongest or toughest. He ALWAYS fought for the smaller guys. Jim Varney made more of an impact than he could ever know.

[@joeysleister]

When my stepdad first moved to Nashville he actually met Him Varney a few years before his death. From what I was told, the conversation that they had was one of the most genuine and down to earth conversations my stepdad ever had with someone he just met. Jim Varney really made my stepdad feel like he was a lifelong friend.

[@daniel_netzel]

I absolutely worshipped this man when I was a kid, and honestly found myself laughing my ass off at even just the clips shown in this video. The man was a true talent, and I cant believe I didnt know all of this history until now! Excellent video, I can tell you put a lot of time in. Looking forward to seeing more!

[@MartyRayProject]

Great mini doc.

[@TheTonialadd]

Great ending as well. ☹️❤️

[@tanner882]

Who will be him in the remake? Mike Rowe or John Cena 🤔

[@royalcollectables]

@@tanner882 i don't think anyone can replace him ever.

[@MissAshley42]

My favorite thing about Earnest is that he showed you could grow old without growing up. He could speak to children on their level while still providing the wisdom and safety kids expect from adults. He helped make getting older seem a little less scary.

[@101Volts]

This is well stated, and wonderful to meditate on. Thank you.

[@elizabethwagganer7243]

I was obsessed with earnest as a kid. Jim was such a talented actor.

[@bkkunkle8313]

When a Jim Varney movie was on, I always knew where to find my three boys and their Dad ! Ernest was their favorite!

[@chr0me3ye]

When I was young (18 now, like 9 or 10 then) I got a triple feature dvd of 3 Ernest movies. I remember my mom saying she used to watch them and doesen't know if I will like them but wanted me to try them out. I loved them, watched those movies so many times, and found it so amazing that there were so many sequels (when your a kid you dont care about the budget its just amazing too see a character you love in so many different scenarios and settings!). Forgot about it for years, but recently became interested in them again. Never knew the story of Jim Varney, besides of course his very tragic passing. It was very interesting too learn all of this! Thank you for taking the time too put it together, Vern.

[@phoenixfeather1337]

My grandfather, ironically named Jim too grew up with Jim Varney in Lexington. Said he was one of the kindest and funniest people out there. Good ol' Kentucky boy through and through.

[@TheresaPowers]

Varney the most selfish, self absorbed asshole. i knew him in Nashville and Los Angeles. I was one of the people who helped Varney and his manager Joe Liles. VArney will be a asshole,

[@mr.whiskers3283]

@@TheresaPowers Kathy, up your dosage and see your therapist...

[@jerlaine1638]

Absolute legend, we'll miss him for sure. I put him up there in the likes of Chris Farley and John Belushi, and John candy a great comedian who we lost to soon

[@michelobdog8825]

"I sure am glad it's raining" as sung by earnest p worrel the most heartfelt and underrated song ever

[@JennRighter]

I've always loved Jim and my best friend's dad, Scott Martin, was exactly like the character in every way. Looked just like him, too. Scott was struck and killed changing his tire on the side of the road twenty years ago. Any time I see Jim Varney I'm reminded of the crazy, hilarious, one of a kind person that Scott was. RIP, both of them.

[@porkchop4401]

I still call it MIAK. He was a good man. Rare these days. I DIDN'T COME HERE TO FEEL!!

[@alexward1319]

didn't think it was in season did you

[@Liquid_Mike]

Dude, my dad called it "Miak" literally every single time we needed some.. memories from a better time

[@ThunderHorsePyro]

When he played a character on Rosanne, my mother and I didn't recognize him. It took a few minutes as his acting was so incredibly different. Jim had amazing range. That was also evident when he played two characters in Ernest goes to Jail.

[@NelsonStJames]

Those Ernest commercials still get a laugh out of me.

[@frocat5163]

My dad gave me a DVD collection of those commercials probably 15 years ago. I haven't watched it for several years, but I'm digging it out after watching this.

[@loveshack6880]

Ermest Saves Christmas is one of the greatest films ever made.

[@charlesjohnson8983]

My favorite is the scene where he is sneaking onto the studio lot and tells the guard the truck is full of snakes lol

[@funkyweapon1981]

@Evilmike42 Air brakes. Hehehehehehe.

[@dylan_1884]

Charles Johnson PAISON SNAKES!!

[@charlesjohnson8983]

Ya want one for your boy?

[@derek-64]

HO HO HO vern! MERRY- *SLAM!!*

[@the_glitter_is]

He came, he saw, he got blown up. ❤ RIP Jim.

[@ZOOTSUITBEATNICK1]

I worked with Varney before the movies. He wasn't just talented, he was a really good, decent guy. imo

[@harashiSAN]

he died 2 days after my 10th birthday. Scared Stupid was my favorite.

[@haldosprime3896]

I can’t say that Ernest movies were my thing growing up, but I’ll also never say that Jim Varney gave anything less than 100% in anything he was in. He earned every bit of praise he got.

[@mcfluffynips]

This guy was one of my favorite people when I was a child :) He made the thought of becoming an adult someday, fun. Kindness, humbled, and mindfulness truly showed in Ernest.

[@jamesk8147]

The amusement park the Ernest character premiered in commercials for was Beech Bend Park in Bowling Green, Ky and it’s still open.

[@williamshaw9047]

Did they fix it up?

[@jamesk8147]

William Shaw Yep, several times since then.

[@derek-64]

never been there but if people in the area don't know about Ernest and the park you need to educate them!

[@stendec-dd3he]

The ' tough man contest ', '...bet them hot dogs are ready, youknowwhaddaimean ?'

[@redshellman]

Ernest saves Christmas is my favorite christmas movie and its my own personal tradition to watch the movie every year.

[@Koldeman]

Ernest Goes to Jail was a perennial favorite for me & dad. No matter how many times we (or other family members we subjected this to) watched it, we would laugh until our sides hurt. This doc is a very important reminiscence to me. Thank you.

[@jamesanthony8438]

"This man is a _coiled cobra_ ready to strike..." Man, I loved that scene with Chuck and Bobby (Gailard Sartain and Bill Byrge) =)

[@derek-64]

@@jamesanthony8438 bobby was pretty hilarious as well!

[@gibberingmaw3211]

RIP Jim, we miss you.

[@KookydohClown]

I grew up as an 80s kid watching him and repeating the catchy phrase "know what I mean Vern?" Good memories. His wacky antics in the Ernest movies made him a real clown at heart.

[@bobbythespaceghost51]

He's part of my childhood. Earnest Goes to Jail was one of my favorite comedies to watch from him.

[@paradoxofmind]

Jim Varney has always been one of my favorite character actors, along with Andy Serkis and Sasha Baron Cohen. It's a shame that he never was able to achieve his ambition of becoming a top-billing dramatic tv and/or film actor, but his take on classic slapstick is truly inspired and timeless, ensuring his legacy as one of the all-time greatest slapstick comedic actors.

[@josephking4732]

Jim Varney was one of my favorite actors as a child (oh, hell, and today too). He is among a few celebrities whos death hit me, too. I didn't know much about the world of entertainment, and I'm still pretty ignorant of it, but I know that he was a diamond in the rough. He made quality entertainment for everyone, not just children. It sucks that he was so good at what he did that God wanted him to come entertain His angels early. R.I.P. Jim, you're still alive in millions of hearts.

[@1tigerbee]

Jim Varney and Ernest will never be forgotten. Too much fun and laughter.

[@smmmokin]

I miss this guy. Every movie is still relevant and doesn't feel like it aged. Definitely one of very few people I really appreciated as a kid. Still do. Guy was one in a million.

[@ErokLobotomist]

R.I.P Ernest. I introduced my 4 year old to Ernest last year, he absolutely LOVES him. Scared Stupid and Goes to Jail are his favourites.

[@OddOneOut665]

The first four Ernest Films (Goes to Camp, Saves Christmas, Goes to Jail, Scared Stupid) are hidden gems...

[@75aces97]

The fact that he made those and more feature films and a TV spot shows that Ernest had some real staying power as a character. Most characters that work in short sketches die when you stretch them out to feature length. They just get painfully unfunny. Ernest made a few movies and we wanted more of them.

[@bigbay1159]

​@@75aces97 Indeed, being able to keep the hype from one media to another let alone commercials is difficult, but over 800 commercials, nearly a dozen Ernest movies, a television show and people still never stopped loving the actor or the character. One in a million as they say

[@goldilox369]

They ain't hidden in my house! I'm raising my kids (11, 4, 5) on these classics. Y'know what I mean? 😜🤣

[@Mskittenlover12]

I've had the VCR tape of Ernest Saves Christmas for years. Grew up loving it.

[@markmann6796]

One of my favorites. Low budget movies with no gratuitous sex, language, or violence (outside of the ol’ fashion slapstick variety). Still makes me laugh...know what I mean?!

[@davidprenticeii6742]

Ernest Saves Christmas is a must watch every holiday season. "Air brakes!" Cracks me up every time. Jim Varney gave this world such a great gift with his talent. Thank you for this mini doc showcasing a comedy legend.

[@GazettiSF]

when i was a kid i always cried my eyes out when i watched "Ernest Scared Stupid" because i always saw my dad in Ernest. not because my dad is dumb of bumbling, but because he is funny and idk, wore a hat? thats all it took for me then. i still see that some how and when i heard about his death i was actually pretty upset.

[@Deviljho5]

Damn I miss this dude! He was so underrated! His Saturday morning show was something that you could only experience once in a life time! He had so much range that went unexplored! “Hats off to you Jim! I will never forget your Saturday morning Christmas episode! I was watching it while I open my presents 🎁! Thank you ☺️

[@favoritemustard3542]

@5:55 "Everybody knows him." That's perfect, & perfectly true. Knowhatimean, Vern?

[@favoritemustard3542]

2nd comment on a 4yo vid about "Ernest" in ernest. If it helps push it to someone else, why not?!TYVM 🎩Off

[@David_Alvarez77]

Did anyone watch the Jim Varney movie "Dr. Otto and the Riddle of the Gloom Beam"? It came out a couple years before Earnest Goes to Camp and it is quite a strange and amusing film. He does lots of different characters including an Earnest cameo and it generally makes fun of all sorts of corny Americana. It was always my favorite Jim Varney film along side "Scared Stupid."

[@lastofmygeneration]

I did! It's pretty fun

[@metalgrinch]

Im 38 years old and still waiting to see what Verne looks like.

[@citizenstranger]

You and i are verne

[@jordantorres7598]

He passed away

[@JohnDoe-xu6uu]

Just look in the mirror

[@metalgrinch]

@@JohnDoe-xu6uu you look in the mirror

[@JohnDoe-xu6uu]

@@metalgrinch. I don't want to. 😣

[@drewhertel2462]

Some of my happiest childhood memories was watching Jim playing the character Ernest with my grandfather growing up. I looked up to my grandfather and because of the joy Jim's antics would bring him, in turn, made me a fan when I was a kid, all the way until today. Thanks you so much for everything Jim Varney