When the fourth season of the hit legal drama Suits premiered in June 2014, a simple message at the end of the episode left many fans asking the same question: “Who is Albert Ezerzer?” The tribute, “In Memory of Albert Ezerzer,” was a heartfelt nod to a valued member of the show’s family, but it also sparked a wave of confusion that continues to this day.
This article unravels the story behind the tribute, clarifies the widespread mix-up with actor D.B. Woodside, and pays respect to the man who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.
Who Was Albert Ezerzer?
Albert Ezerzer was not an actor who graced the screen, but his work was essential to the magic of filmmaking. Born on January 31, 1959, he built a long and respected career in the film and television industry’s transportation department.
A Dedicated Career in Film Transportation
For decades, Ezerzer was a key part of the crew on numerous productions. As a driver, his responsibilities went beyond simply getting from one point to another; he ensured that cast and crew, including high-profile actors, arrived safely and on time, a crucial role in maintaining a smooth production schedule.
His work put him in the orbit of Hollywood stars like Shirley MacLaine, Donald Sutherland, and Cameron Diaz. His filmography includes titles like Interstate 60 and The Big Heist, showcasing a career built on reliability and professionalism.
The Suits Memorial Tribute
Albert Ezerzer was a part of the Suits production team, working in the transportation department. His sudden passing on May 9, 2014, at the age of 55, was a significant loss for his colleagues.
A Heartfelt Acknowledgment
To honor his memory, the show dedicated the Season 4 premiere, “One-Two-Three Go!,” to him. This simple act of displaying his name was a powerful acknowledgment of his contribution and the respect he had earned from the cast and crew.
Aaron Korsh’s Confirmation
In response to the outpouring of questions from fans, Suits creator Aaron Korsh took to Twitter to clarify Ezerzer’s role. He confirmed that Albert had worked in the show’s transportation department, putting to rest any speculation that he was a member of the on-screen cast.
The Widespread Confusion with D.B. Woodside
The tribute, meant to honor a colleague, unintentionally created a case of mistaken identity that has persisted online for years. Many viewers came to believe that Albert Ezerzer was the actor who played Jeff Malone.
How the Mix-Up Began
The confusion was a perfect storm of timing and coincidence. The tribute to Ezerzer aired in the same season that the character Jeff Malone, a prominent new lawyer, was introduced. Fans connected the on-screen tribute with the new face they were seeing.
The Role of Physical Resemblance
Compounding the issue was the undeniable physical resemblance between Albert Ezerzer and D.B. Woodside, the actor who actually portrayed Jeff Malone. Their similar features led many to conclude, incorrectly, that the man being memorialized was the same man playing Jessica Pearson’s new love interest.
Introducing D.B. Woodside
It is important to distinguish between these two men and celebrate their individual contributions. D.B. Woodside is a talented and accomplished actor with a career spanning many popular television shows.
The Actor Behind Jeff Malone
Woodside brought the character of Jeff Malone to life, adding a new layer of depth to the series and to Gina Torres’s character, Jessica Pearson. His performance was praised for its strength and charisma.
A Celebrated Career
Beyond Suits, D.B. Woodside is widely recognized for his roles as Wayne Palmer in 24, the angel Amenadiel in Lucifer, and Principal Robin Wood in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. He is a familiar face to television audiences, and his work stands on its own.
Setting the Record Straight
Separating the identities of Albert Ezerzer and D.B. Woodside allows us to appreciate both men for who they truly were. It highlights the different but equally vital roles that people play in creating a successful television show.
Honoring a Behind-the-Scenes Hero
Albert Ezerzer represents the countless unsung heroes of the film industry. The crew members—from transportation to catering, from lighting to sound—are the backbone of any production. The tribute from the Suits team was a rare and public acknowledgment of this truth.
Appreciating the Art of Acting
At the same time, recognizing D.B. Woodside for his work as Jeff Malone allows us to appreciate the craft of acting. His skill in bringing a character to life is a separate and distinct contribution that deserves its own recognition.
The Lasting Legacy of Albert Ezerzer
Though he was never in the spotlight, Albert Ezerzer left a lasting mark on the people he worked with. The decision to dedicate an episode to his memory speaks volumes about the kind of person he was and the impact he had on the Suits family.
His story is a reminder that every person involved in a production has value. While fans may only see the actors on screen, it takes a dedicated team of professionals behind the scenes to make the magic happen. Albert Ezerzer was one of those professionals, and his memory lives on through the show he helped create.
