Meaning: The quote "Lou Grant was pretty much always Lou Grant" was spoken by Mary Tyler Moore, an American actress known for her role as Mary Richards on the popular television show "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." The quote refers to the character of Lou Grant, played by actor Ed Asner, on the same show.

In the context of the quote, Mary Tyler Moore seems to be commenting on the consistency and authenticity of the character Lou Grant throughout the series. As viewers may recall, Lou Grant was the gruff but lovable newsroom boss of the fictional WJM-TV station where Mary Richards worked. He was known for his no-nonsense attitude, gruff demeanor, and tough love approach to managing his team. Despite these qualities, he was also portrayed as a compassionate and principled individual who truly cared about the people he worked with.

The quote suggests that the character of Lou Grant remained true to himself and his core values throughout the series, regardless of the situations he faced or the challenges that came his way. This consistency in the portrayal of the character made Lou Grant a beloved and enduring figure in television history.

The character of Lou Grant was initially introduced on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" as the head of the newsroom, and he later went on to become the central character of his own spin-off series, simply titled "Lou Grant." The spin-off, which aired from 1977 to 1982, took a different approach from its predecessor, focusing on more serious and topical issues in a dramatic format, as opposed to the comedic tone of "The Mary Tyler Moore Show."

Throughout both shows, Ed Asner's portrayal of Lou Grant earned critical acclaim and popularity among audiences. His ability to bring depth and nuance to the character contributed to the lasting impact of Lou Grant in the world of television. The character's strong moral compass, integrity, and unwavering dedication to journalism made him a character that viewers could admire and respect.

Furthermore, the quote could also be interpreted as a reflection of the skill and talent of Ed Asner as an actor. His consistent portrayal of Lou Grant throughout the various challenges and storylines of the shows demonstrated his ability to bring a complex and multi-dimensional character to life. Asner's performance not only entertained audiences but also resonated with them on a deeper level, solidifying Lou Grant as a memorable and iconic character in television history.

In conclusion, the quote "Lou Grant was pretty much always Lou Grant" by Mary Tyler Moore captures the enduring and consistent nature of the character as well as the skillful portrayal by Ed Asner. Lou Grant's unwavering authenticity and integrity made him a beloved figure in television, and his impact continues to be felt by fans of both "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and "Lou Grant."