Eastbound And Down Cast: The Complete Guide To The Hilarious Ensemble

Cassie Collier 21 Jun 2025

Eastbound and Down is a comedy series that has captivated audiences worldwide with its outrageous humor and unique characters. The show, which aired on HBO from 2009 to 2013, follows the life of washed-up MLB pitcher Kenny Powers. With its stellar cast and sharp writing, Eastbound and Down remains a favorite among comedy enthusiasts.

Since its debut, the series has gained a cult following for its unapologetic humor and relatable storyline about a former athlete struggling to find his place in life. The show's success is largely attributed to the incredible performances by the cast, who bring each character to life with authenticity and charm.

This article dives deep into the Eastbound and Down cast, exploring their backgrounds, roles in the series, and their careers beyond the show. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just discovering the series, this guide offers an in-depth look at the talented ensemble that made Eastbound and Down a comedic masterpiece.

Biography of Key Cast Members
Main Characters in Eastbound and Down
Danny McBride as Kenny Powers
Nancy Carey as Tammy Lee
Stephen Root as Rusty
Jody Hill as Coach
Margaret Cho as Miss Chokyi
Supporting Cast and Their Contributions
Behind the Scenes of Eastbound and Down
Critical Reception and Legacy
Post-Eastbound Careers of the Cast
Conclusion

Biography of Key Cast Members

Eastbound and Down boasts an ensemble of talented actors who contributed significantly to the show's success. Below is a detailed look at the biographies of the key cast members:

Danny McBride

Danny McBride, the creator and star of Eastbound and Down, was born on June 26, 1976, in Covington, Georgia. He is a comedian, actor, and writer known for his distinctive voice and comedic style. McBride's career took off with his breakout role in "The Foot Fist Way," a film he co-wrote and starred in.

Name	Danny McBride
Born	June 26, 1976
Place of Birth	Covington, Georgia
Role in Eastbound and Down	Kenny Powers

Main Characters in Eastbound and Down

The show features a diverse array of characters, each with their own quirks and storylines. These characters are brought to life by the talented cast of Eastbound and Down:

Kenny Powers - The main protagonist, a self-absorbed former MLB pitcher.
Tammy Lee - Kenny's ex-wife, known for her fiery personality and sharp wit.
Rusty - Kenny's manager and confidant, who often finds himself in awkward situations.
Coach - Kenny's former coach and a central figure in his life.

Danny McBride as Kenny Powers

Danny McBride plays the lead role of Kenny Powers, a character he created and developed over the years. Kenny Powers is a larger-than-life figure who embodies the struggles of a former athlete trying to reclaim his glory days.

McBride's portrayal of Kenny Powers is both hilarious and poignant, capturing the character's flaws and vulnerabilities. His ability to balance humor with emotional depth has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

McBride's Writing Process

Beyond acting, McBride is heavily involved in the writing and creative direction of Eastbound and Down. He collaborates closely with co-creators Jody Hill and David Gordon Green to ensure the show stays true to its roots while evolving with each season.

Nancy Carey as Tammy Lee

Nancy Carey plays Tammy Lee, Kenny Powers' ex-wife and a central character in the series. Carey brings a unique energy to the role, making Tammy Lee one of the most memorable characters in Eastbound and Down.

Her dynamic with Kenny Powers is a highlight of the show, showcasing the complexities of their relationship. Carey's performance is both comedic and heartfelt, adding depth to the narrative.

Stephen Root as Rusty

Stephen Root portrays Rusty, Kenny Powers' manager and loyal friend. Root's character is a perfect foil to Kenny's larger-than-life personality, often serving as the voice of reason in chaotic situations.

Root's extensive experience in comedy and drama adds authenticity to his portrayal of Rusty. His ability to deliver subtle humor and heartfelt moments makes Rusty a beloved character among fans.

Jody Hill as Coach

Jody Hill plays Coach, Kenny Powers' former coach and mentor. Hill's role is crucial to the show's narrative, as Coach serves as a guiding figure in Kenny's life.

Hill's performance is both authoritative and compassionate, capturing the essence of a mentor-mentee relationship. His involvement in the show extends beyond acting, as he is also one of the creators and executive producers of Eastbound and Down.

Margaret Cho as Miss Chokyi

Margaret Cho plays Miss Chokyi, a yoga instructor and one of Kenny Powers' love interests. Cho's character adds a unique dimension to the show, bringing humor and cultural diversity to the narrative.

Cho's portrayal of Miss Chokyi highlights her versatility as an actress and comedian. Her scenes with Kenny Powers are some of the most memorable in the series, showcasing their comedic chemistry.

Supporting Cast and Their Contributions

Eastbound and Down features a host of supporting characters who contribute to the show's overall success:

Don Cheadle as Damien Lewis - A rival athlete who challenges Kenny Powers both on and off the field.
Joel McHale as Gary - Kenny's neighbor and occasional ally, who often finds himself caught up in Kenny's schemes.
John Hawkes as Steve - A recurring character who adds comedic relief through his eccentric behavior.

Behind the Scenes of Eastbound and Down

The making of Eastbound and Down is as fascinating as the show itself. The cast and crew worked tirelessly to create a unique and engaging series that resonated with audiences worldwide.

One of the standout aspects of the production is the improvisational style used by the actors. This approach allowed for spontaneous and authentic performances, adding depth to the characters and storylines.

Challenges Faced During Production

Despite its success, Eastbound and Down faced several challenges during production. The creators had to navigate the delicate balance between pushing the boundaries of comedy while staying true to the show's core values.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Eastbound and Down received widespread critical acclaim for its innovative storytelling and exceptional performances. Critics praised the show's ability to tackle complex themes while maintaining its comedic edge.

The series has left a lasting legacy in the world of television, influencing a new generation of comedies. Its impact on pop culture is evident in the numerous references and parodies inspired by the show.

Post-Eastbound Careers of the Cast

After the conclusion of Eastbound and Down, the cast members continued to thrive in their respective careers:

Danny McBride - Explored new creative ventures, including films and TV shows.
Nancy Carey - Took on various acting roles in television and film.
Stephen Root - Continued his successful career in both comedy and drama.

Conclusion

Eastbound and Down remains a groundbreaking series that continues to entertain and inspire audiences worldwide. The cast's exceptional performances and the show's innovative storytelling have cemented its place in television history.

We invite you to share your thoughts and favorite moments from Eastbound and Down in the comments below. Don't forget to explore more articles on our website for in-depth insights into your favorite TV shows and movies.

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