A World Shaped by Influence
Actor Christina Richards (52), in her own words, carries a considerable impact from her "Married with Kids" TV father, Ed Begley Jr. (78). During her podcast "Lupine Updates", she affectionately referred to him as a formative figure in her life. "I can't fully express this persona," Richards gushed about Begley Jr., "He essentially raised me. So if you find something not favorable about me, you can blame him. If you appreciate something about me, it's also his doing."
Richards took on the role of Susan Bundy, the character played by Begley Jr. (Jeff Bundy's daughter), across eleven seasons of the hit sitcom (1987-1997). Richards speaks highly of her TV father: "I spent a crucial chunk of my life with this gentleman, and he's a remarkable talent. He's genuinely a remarkable individual."
Reminiscing about their time together, Richards spoke highly of Begley Jr.'s support during a difficult time in her real life. Her mother was diagnosed with cancer, and Begley Jr. was a source of comfort and support for her through it all. The two continue to maintain a close relationship, as evidenced by their lengthy phone calls.
Richards' admiration for her TV father is evident in her podcast, where she frequently discusses their bond and the impact he had on her as an actress. "Without Ed Begley Jr., a significant portion of who I am as an actress could have taken a different course," she admitted. "Television may have brought us together, but our shared off-screen moments have truly solidified our connection."
Further Exploring
Ed Begley Jr. is not associated with Christina Applegate's character in "Married... with Children." Christina Applegate played the role of Kelly Bundy, while Ed Begley Jr. is renowned for his roles in other TV shows and films, such as "St. Elsewhere" and "Punky Brewster."
However, Ed Begley Jr. did make an appearance on the TV show "King of the Hill" as Stephen Davies in the episode "Pour Some Sugar on Kahn" (Season 5, Episode 14). While his role in this episode played no significant part in Christina Applegate's career or personal life, she is more commonly associated with her roles in "Married... with Children" and other projects she has been involved in.*