Greg Evigan Shares the Reality of Working with Chimpanzee Co-Star in “B.J. and the Bear”: ‘He Doesn’t Know About the Lines’

The iconic television series “B.J. and the Bear,” which captivated audiences between 1979 and 1981, featured actor Greg Evigan in the lead role as Billie Joe McKay, a free-spirited trucker. This show is fondly remembered for its unique premise and the charming co-star—a chimpanzee named Bear. The character’s name was inspired by the legendary football coach Bear Bryant, associated with the University of Alabama.

In a recent discussion on the podcast “Pop Culture Retro,” Evigan, now 72, reminisced about his time on the show, particularly his experiences with his chimpanzee counterpart. According to Evigan, the audition process was rather unconventional; he found himself on a sound stage sitting beside a stuffed chimp. However, upon securing the role, he was excited to work with a real-life chimpanzee. “It was great. I loved working with him. He was one of the finest actors I’ve ever worked with. He was very spontaneous,” Evigan revealed, smiling at the memory.

The unpredictability of his chimp co-star added a special dynamic to the show’s filming process. “What I enjoyed the most about him is that you just didn’t know what was going to happen,” Evigan explained. “You went in with what you thought might occur. You knew your lines, but he doesn’t know about the lines.” This spontaneous nature meant that Evigan often had to react quickly and adapt to the chimp’s performance, leading to some genuinely memorable moments on screen.

Interestingly, Evigan shared that there were actually two chimpanzees involved in the show’s production, although one primarily performed stunts, leaving the star moments to the second chimp. This behind-the-scenes nuance highlights the complexities of working with animal actors and the dedication required to bring their performances to life.

“B.J. and the Bear” aired on NBC and quickly became a cult classic, blending elements of adventure and comedy. The show told the story of B.J. and his pet chimp as they cruised across America, encountering various eccentric characters and situations along the way. The chemistry between Evigan and Bear was a significant part of the show’s charm, drawing in viewers and creating a lasting legacy that would resonate in television history.

Following his success with “B.J. and the Bear,” Evigan continued his acting career, notably starring in the popular 1980s sitcom “My Two Dads.” This series, which debuted in 1987, featured an unconventional family dynamic. Evigan played Joey Harris, an easy-going artist who shared parental responsibilities with the straight-laced Michael Taylor, portrayed by Paul Reiser. The show’s premise revolved around both men vying for the affection of the same woman over the years, offering a lighthearted exploration of love and friendship.

Reflecting on his experiences, Evigan’s fondness for his early work remains clear. His interactions with Bear provided a unique perspective on the unpredictable nature of live television and animal performances. As Evigan continues to engage with fans and share his stories, it is evident that his time on “B.J. and the Bear” holds a special place in his heart—a nostalgic reminder of an era where creativity and spontaneity thrived in the world of television.

With the resurgence of interest in classic shows, it is likely that many fans will revisit “B.J. and the Bear,” eager to witness the delightful antics of Billie Joe McKay and his lovable companion. Evigan’s candid reflections serve not only as a tribute to his career but also as a window into the fascinating world of animal co-stars that continues to enchant audiences to this day. As Evigan puts it, “Those are some of the best moments always,” highlighting the unpredictable joy that comes with working alongside a talented animal actor.