The Unseen Life Of Ernie Douglas: Where Is Barry Livingston Of 'My Three Sons' Now (2025)?

For millions of classic television fans, the name Ernie Douglas immediately conjures the image of the bespectacled, adopted youngest son from the long-running sitcom *My Three Sons*. While the show concluded decades ago, the actor who brought Ernie to life, Barry Livingston, has maintained an impressively active and resilient career in Hollywood, successfully navigating the notorious pitfalls of child stardom. As of this current date, December 12, 2025, Livingston is not only reflecting on his iconic past but is also actively involved in new film projects slated for release, proving his six-decade career is far from over. The story of Barry Livingston is a rare one in show business: a child actor who transitioned seamlessly into a respected veteran character actor, appearing in everything from critically acclaimed dramas to major blockbuster films. His journey from the Douglas family home to the sets of modern television and movies provides a fascinating look at the endurance required for a "Hollywood Survivor," a title he earned and documented in his revealing memoir.

Barry Livingston: A Hollywood Survivor's Biography and Profile

Barry Gordon Livingston, known professionally as Barry Livingston, was born into the heart of the entertainment industry, with both he and his older brother, Stanley Livingston (who played Chip Douglas on *My Three Sons*), becoming television icons.

• Full Name: Barry Gordon Livingston
• Born: December 17, 1953 (Age 71 as of late 2024)
• Birth Place: Los Angeles, California, U.S.
• Occupation: Actor, Author, Producer
• Spouse: Karen Huntsman (m. 1983)
• Siblings: Stanley Livingston (Actor, played Chip Douglas)
• Iconic Role: Ernie Douglas on *My Three Sons* (1963–1972)
• Notable Post-Sitcom Roles: *Mad Men*, *The Social Network*, *Argo*, *Bosch: Legacy*, *The Rookie*
• Memoir: *The Importance of Being Ernie: From My Three Sons to Mad Men, a Hollywood Survivor Tells All* (2017)

The Enduring Legacy of Ernie Douglas on *My Three Sons*

Barry Livingston joined the cast of *My Three Sons* in 1963, initially for a non-recurring role as a friend of Chip Douglas, the character played by his real-life brother Stanley Livingston. His character, Ernie Thompson, was later adopted by the family patriarch, Steve Douglas (played by Fred MacMurray), after the departure of original brother Mike Douglas (Tim Considine) and the death of Robbie Douglas actor Don Grady. This adoption storyline was groundbreaking for television at the time, introducing a new dynamic to the Douglas family unit. Ernie Douglas quickly became a beloved character, often seen as the earnest, slightly nerdy, and bespectacled youngest son. His glasses, which were initially a reason he was fired from a previous role, became his trademark on the show. He spent nine seasons on the show, growing up on screen alongside his TV brothers and other cast members like Tina Cole (Katie Douglas). The show’s focus on the single-father household led by Steve Douglas, with the help of grandfathers and housekeepers like William Frawley (Bub) and William Demarest (Uncle Charley), cemented its place as a quintessential 1960s and 1970s family sitcom. Livingston’s memoir, *The Importance of Being Ernie*, delves deeply into the challenges and joys of this period. He has often spoken in recent interviews about the surreal experience of a lion getting loose on the set and the pressure of child stardom, but also the stability provided by the professional environment of the show. This candid look at his time as a child star offers valuable insight into how he managed to avoid the common "child star curse," a topic he frequently discusses in contemporary interviews.

From Sitcom Star to Character Actor: Barry Livingston’s Recent Career Highlights

Unlike many of his peers, Barry Livingston did not fade away after his iconic sitcom ended. He made a conscious decision to pursue a serious acting career, moving to New York to study theater and hone his craft. This dedication allowed him to transition into a highly respected character actor with over 100 film and television credits. His later career is marked by appearances in high-profile projects, often taking on roles as authority figures, lawyers, or professionals. He notably appeared in the Oscar-winning film *Argo* and the critically acclaimed series *Mad Men*, a role which he often cites as a highlight of his post-*My Three Sons* life.

Recent and Upcoming Roles: 2021–2025

Livingston’s commitment to his craft is evident in his continuing stream of work. Fans can find him in recent and upcoming projects, demonstrating his relevance in the modern entertainment landscape.

• *Bosch: Legacy* (2022): He appeared in the spin-off series, showcasing his ability to fit into modern, grittier dramatic roles.
• *The Rookie* (2021): A guest spot on this popular procedural further proves his continued presence on network television.
• *Isabel's Garden* (2024): A concrete, very recent film role, released on April 11, 2024, where he played the character Larry the Lawyer. This role highlights his current preference for independent feature films and character work.
• *Looking Through Water* (2025): Livingston is credited in this upcoming drama film, scheduled for a September 2025 release, playing the role of Devon Mills. The fact that he has roles scheduled for 2025 confirms his active status in the industry.
• *Notorious Nick* (2021): An earlier film role that shows his steady work during the start of the decade.

The Importance of Being Ernie: A Memoir’s Impact

Livingston's book remains a central part of his public life. Published in 2017, the memoir is a frank and funny account of his six decades in Hollywood, from his early days as a child actor to his later work on shows like *Mad Men*. The book’s success has led to a consistent stream of interviews in 2024, where he shares behind-the-scenes stories, discusses the dynamics of the *My Three Sons* cast, and offers his perspective on the industry's evolution. He often reflects on the "Douglas family" and the bond he shared with his on-screen father, Fred MacMurray, and his real-life brother, Stanley Livingston. His ongoing interviews are a vital source of nostalgia and fresh insight for classic TV enthusiasts, establishing him as a key figure in preserving the history of the Golden Age of television. In a world where child star stories often end tragically, Barry Livingston’s journey is one of perseverance, smart career choices, and a genuine love for acting. From the wholesome, family-friendly world of *My Three Sons* to the complex character roles of today, Ernie Douglas has truly grown up and continues to thrive in Hollywood.