| Full Name | Edward Allen Brown |
| Age | 58 |
| Birthday | April 28, 1965 |
| Relationship Status | Engaged |
| Height | 4‘ 11" |
| Net Worth | $800K |
| Social Media |     |
Big Ed, born Edward Allen Brown, is a reality TV personality who rose to fame in 2020 on the hit TLC show 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days. With his endearing personality, sense of humor, and openness about his life, Big Ed quickly became a fan favorite. Here we‘ll take a closer look at who Big Ed is and why we love him.
All About Big Ed
Early Life and Background
Big Ed was born on April 28, 1965 in San Diego, California, making him currently 58 years old. He was raised primarily by his mother after his parents divorced when he was just 2 years old.
Big Ed had a rough childhood, suffering from Klippel-Feil Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that caused his neck to fuse together and left him with a shorter stature. He was bullied relentlessly as a child because of his appearance. Despite this, Big Ed persevered and maintained a positive attitude.
After high school, Big Ed attended San Diego State University, graduating in 1987 with a degree in Communications. Shortly after, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served for over 20 years before retiring in 2009 at the rank of Chief Petty Officer.
Rise to Reality TV Fame on 90 Day Fiancé
In 2019, Big Ed decided to look for love on the reality show 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days. The show documents couples who have applied for or received a K-1 visa, which allows foreign fiancés just 90 days to come to America and marry their partner.
Big Ed was paired with Rosemarie “Rose” Vega, a then 23-year-old woman from the Philippines. Their substantial age difference, and cultural differences, made for entertaining television. Viewers were drawn in by Big Ed’s lovable, yet flawed personality. His sincerity and eagerness to find true love resonated with fans.
Although his relationship with Rose didn’t work out, Big Ed became one of the most popular cast members on the show. His signature moves like applying mayonnaise to his hair as conditioner and offering to shave Rose‘s legs charmed fans.
Even though he didn‘t find lasting love on the show, he won over viewers with his kindness and determination. Fans now closely follow his life post-Rose as he continues searching for love.
Continued Popularity and New Projects
After 90 Day Fiancé, Big Ed‘s popularity skyrocketed. He appeared on the spin-off 90 Day Fiancé: Pillow Talk and continued to share details about his life with over 1.2 million Instagram followers.
Big Ed has leveraged his fame in new ways:
- Released an autobiography titled "Big Ed: My Life on and Off the Show"
- Launched a podcast called “Big Ed Speaks with Big Ed Brown”
- Made cameos in music videos and YouTube shows
- Partnered with brands for endorsements and advertising campaigns
- Began offering personalized video greetings on Cameo
Fans can‘t seem to get enough of Big Ed‘s lovable personality! He embraces his celebrity status but remains down-to-earth by staying involved with fans online.
Big Ed‘s Endearing Qualities
There are many reasons Big Ed has become so beloved by fans. Here are some of his most endearing qualities:
He‘s Hilarious
Big Ed has an incredible sense of humor. His commentary during interviews on 90 Day Fiancé was comedy gold. Like when he asked Rosemarie if her legs were hairless and demonstrated shaving his own hairy legs! He continues to make fans laugh daily with funny TikToks and amusing captions on Instagram.
He‘s Vulnerable
Ed is very open about his insecurities, especially regarding his appearance and dating at his age. He lets viewers in emotionally as he searches for love, talking about his desire for companionship. In one episode, he cried tears of joy when Rose gave him a toothpaste-themed birthday cake. His vulnerability allows fans to deeply connect with him.
He‘s Kind-Hearted
Despite relationship struggles on the show, Big Ed appears to be a genuinely kind person at heart. His caring nature shines through in his eagerness to find a soulmate to share his life with. Fans are rooting for him to find his happily ever after.
He Doesn‘t Take Himself Too Seriously
Amidst all the memes and jokes at his expense, Big Ed never seems offended. He embraces his popularity, even participating in silly dances on TikTok and Cameos poking fun at himself. He knows how to laugh at himself and not take things too personally.
He Adores His Dog Teddy
Big Ed‘s bond with his dog Teddy is super sweet. He dotes on his canine companion daily, sharing adorable photos cuddling and snuggling with his pup. Fans can‘t handle the cuteness and flood the comments with love for Teddy. Their beautiful friendship brings joy to his followers.
Life After Reality TV Fame
Big Ed has certainly stayed busy after his rapid rise to fame! Here are some of the main ways he‘s leveraging his celebrity status:
Released an Autobiography
In 2021, Ed wrote his first book titled "Big Ed: My Life Before and After 90 Day Fiancé" chronicling his unique childhood, career, time on reality TV and lessons he‘s learned. Fans snapped up copies to learn more about his inspiring life story.
Launched a Podcast
Ed also started his own podcast in 2020 called "Big Ed Speaks" where he conducts interviews, offers witty commentary and responds to fan questions. Guests have included his mom Norma and fellow 90 Day Fiancé cast members. Fans love getting his unfiltered takes!
Increased Media Appearances
He‘s popped up on popular YouTube shows like Domenick Nati‘s talk show, the 90 Day Cray Cray podcast, and The Lipstick Gypsy show. These interviews provide a glimpse into Big Ed‘s world after 90 Day Fiancé stardom.
Cameo Side Hustle
Ed joined Cameo in 2020 and charges $99 per personalized video for fans. He embraces requests for zany greetings, often sporting costumes and props. It‘s a creative outlet and steady income stream!
Lucrative Brand Partnerships
As his fame has skyrocketed, Big Ed has scored lucrative brand endorsement deals. He promotes products on social media and appears in ads for companies like CheapOair, Manscaped, BOOMBOD weight loss and more.
Motivational Speaking Engagements
Big Ed shares his story to inspire others. He makes public appearances and speaks on topics like bullying, self-acceptance and overcoming adversity. Fans praise him for using his platform for good.
Fun Facts About Big Ed
After following Big Ed for years, here are some of my favorite fun facts about him:
- His neck circumference is actually 16 inches!
- He‘s a skilled photographer, having shot celebs like Snoop Dogg before 90 Day Fiancé
- Jerky is his favorite snack – he brings it everywhere
- He loves belting out karaoke tunes whenever he gets the chance
- His dog Teddy has an Instagram account with over 50k followers
- He once appeared on an episode of Celebrity Family Feud
- His daughter Tiffany and dog Teddy are his biggest supporters
- He‘s a twin! His sister‘s name is Cindy.
The Impact of Big Ed
Big Ed has handled his sudden fame with grace and humility. 90 Day Fiancé gave him an international platform to share his story. Despite criticism, Big Ed focuses on the fans he‘s inspired.
Through his authenticity, humor and kind spirit, Big Ed reminds us to keep moving forward. He‘s an urelenting optimist, always hoping for the best in people and in life. We‘re lucky to witness his journey.