The Man, The Myth, The Malone: Unpacking Brian Baumgartner's Journey and Passions
Exactly who’s Brian Baumgartner when the director yells “cut,” y’all ask?
He’s a renaissance man for the 21st century, a podcast host with the voice of a smooth-talking cowboy, and a philanthropist with a heart as big as Texas itself.
From sparking impromptu two-hour social marathons to becoming an accidental culinary hero,
Brian’s the kind of fella that keeps on surprising.
But hold your horses, ‘cause that’s just a peek at this multi-talented man, who transforms every space he steps into, into an unforgettable experience.
So, pull up a chair, shed those spurs and loosen up that bolo tie as we mosey on through the life and times of Brian Baumgartner, including:
- His connection to Texas
- Why Brian swears by Texas-based Chisos boots
- A peek into Brian's net worth and the projects that got him there
- Family life
- His love for golf and baseball
Brian Baumgartner and Will Roman, Chisos Founder, in conversation at Chisos headquarters
Brian Baumgartner’s Exploits in the Lone-Star State
Ya’ll know you can’t rightly size up a man without taking’ a good look at where he comes from. For Brian, one of those fork-in-the-road moments came when he set his sights on acting over at the Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Texas.
In an interview with SMU Daily Campus, he tipped his hat saying it’s worth more than just chasing after fame like some other places might push you to do.
The extensive Bachelor of Fine Arts acting program teaches students technical work like how to work with lighting, sets, and sound. As such, in their Sophomore year, students undergo voice, acting, and movement classes down to the various dialects, clown work, and stage combat.
While studying at SMU, Brian lived in Letterman Hall, a place that’s now just a ghost after being demolished in 2005 to pave the way for a garage. Of his time there, Brian says you’d always find him in the theater department, in his element.
His absolute, all-time favorite moment was getting cast as Willy Loman in "Death of a Salesman" when he was just a senior.
But it wasn't all work and no play for Brian. He'd often mosey on down to the Iconic Green Elephant to let off some steam.
Open since 1990, the Green Elephant was the go-to joint for students looking for a good time, with live tunes, a place to shoot some pool, and a laid-back patio for those warm Texas nights.
But hold on, there’s another twist in the tale. Texas didn't just kickstart Brian's career in acting; it stamped its mark on him with a pair of cowboy boots.
And we ain't talkin' about just any old boots. We're talkin' about the kind that fit your soul like a glove, crafted with care and know-how.
He’s quick to say that a real good cowboy boot has got to be sturdy and super comfortable. And that's what we at Chisos are all about—making boots so comfortable, you'd swear you're walking on a cloud.
Brian Baumgartner's Triumphant Return: Revisiting SMU for a Homecoming Parade Extravaganza
Brian’s been back to Texas a time or two since his school days wrapped up, like in 2014 when he came on back for the SMU Homecoming Parade—a real patchwork quilt of Texan tradition.
We’re talking marching bands playing tunes that'll have your boots tappin' on the concrete, folks decked out in the bold red, white, and blue of the Texas flag, and fancy floats that house Homecoming Queen and King candidates.
The air is usually electric, with the smell of barbecue heavy in the air, mixing with that sweet scent of fresh hay and leather.
Brian Takes Austin: A Glimpse Into His Impact at SXSW 2023
More recently, Brian attended the annual SXSW festival held at the Austin Convention Center in the spring of '23, where he was spotted wearing a Texan wardrobe staple…the iconic cowboy boot.bsp;
During the event, Brian Baumgartner and Ed Helms, who played Andy Bernard on The Office talked about their transition from working on T.V. shows to podcasting.
Brian's been the voice behind a slew of podcasts, including "Off The Beat With Brian Baumgartner," while Ed's been wrangling stories on "SNAFU," digging into some of the biggest whoops-a-daisy moments the world's ever seen.
And let me tell ya, Brian got to yarning about this one heart-tugging sit-down he had with Nastia Liukin, that all-fired, five-time Olympic medalist in gymnastics. Her fire and gumption went and made a mark on him that'll last longer than a West Texas sunset.
Brian Baumgartner and Ed Helms in conversation at the 2023 SXSW festival in Texas
The Chisos Connection: Brian’s Love for Quality Cowboy Boots
As someone who ain't fixin' to walk around without his cowboy boots, Brian plunks down some serious greenbacks on good quality, long-lasting cowboy boots.
Having shimmied his feet into cowboy boots while at SMU and after, Brian is as Texan as he can be. So when he starts talking about boots, y'all best listen, because he's got the bona fides to back it up.
You see, Brian knows a secret and that secret is Chisos—the creators of the world’s comfiest cowboy boots.
Some of the reasons that make our boots so remarkable include:
- High-quality leather from retired dairy cows
- The delicate handicraft work our artisans bring to each pair
- Modern-day magic featuring a stacked leather heel, lush leather insole, and a removable comfort insole
We had the honor of welcoming Brian to our Chisos offices for a good ol' chinwag about all things cowboy boots, the Texan way of life, and the importance of doing things the right way.
And sure as shootin', we captured this unforgettable visit in pictures.
Brian Baumgarner with the founder of Chisos, Will, chat about cowboy boots
Brian Baumgartner in cowboy boots and signature cap and chief Texan Will
Setting the Stage: Who is Brian Baumgartner Really?
Ya’ll might know him as Kevin Malone, the chili-spilling M&M-munching character from “The Office,” but that’s just one color on his palette.
Brian Baumgartner isn't just a fella who lights up the TV screen; he's like a porch light on a summer night, drawing folks together with his bubbly nature.
For instance, during the 2023 American Century Championship, Brian spent two hours doing just one lap around the room, chatting, laughing, and creating memorable moments, because he simply couldn't help himself. According to him, it’s all about the relationship.
In 2014, Brian Baumgartner’s infectious personality and unparalleled sociability found the perfect stage—his wedding.
Celeste Ackelson, the gal who lassoed his heart, didn't just fall head over boots for his jokes; she loved his sense of humor even when the chips were down.
Not your average bride, Celeste is a visionary in the fashion industry, armed with a communications degree from Florida International University.
The guests included some of his co-stars from The Office—John Krasinski, Oscar Nunez, Angela Kinsey, and Jenna Fischer.
Brian Baumgartner greeting a guest at his wedding
Step aside, James Bond, Brian Baumgartner brought some serious dapper to the wedding aisle.
Duded up in a light gray suit and a black tie, Brian's getup hollers sophistication with a wink of modern edge.
The light gray is fresh and airy, just right for a wedding brimming with joy and a fair chance of some boot-scootin' moves.
On the other hand, the black tie adds that timeless touch, reminding everyone that this is a momentous, elegant occasion.
Celeste Ackelson and Brian Baumgartner on their wedding day
Celeste’s pick of a strapless ivory lace gown with a mermaid finish reveals her preference for classic and romantic elements.
Then there’s the light barrel curls of her hair cascading down her back, adding a soft, approachable touch to the overall look. One thing’s for sure; she exudes a sense of timeless elegance with a twist of modern sass.
Success on TV, Media, and Lesser-Known Roles
Brian's philosophy to hitch your wagon to what you're hankerin' to do, mixed with the acting training from SMU, laid down the tracks for his success as Kevin Malone on "The Office" and beyond.
Though the show hung up its hat in 2013, audiences still watch (and rewatch) it to this very day, like a favorite old western.
Moreover, there's been a whole mess of merchandise based on the show that's kept the home fires burning for fans over the years. Here are a few:
Brian playing drums in a Scrantonicity tee
Kevin’s second band Scrantonicity II made a comeback in 2019 with Brian Baumgartner at the helm. These Scrantonicity concert tees were sold at the time and the proceeds were donated to Red Cross Disaster Relief.
We're tickled pink by Brian's knack for keeping us entertained, whether he's all gussied up in character or just being his own good ol' self.
Brian Baumgartner wearing Kevin’s famous chili tee in 2018
In the long, hot summer of 2018, Brian Baumgartner took fans on a nostalgic trail ride down memory lane by rustling up some of Kevin Malone’s most iconic chili fixin's—shirts, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs.
Then, channeling the spirit of doing right by others, Brian tipped his hat and generously forked over the proceeds from the merchandise roundup to the Motion Picture and Television Fund (MPTF).
Away from merchandise, Brian also hosted a podcast show, "An Oral History of The Office," which tipped its last hat in the episode "Beauty in Ordinary Things" on the 15th of September, 2020.
In this episode cast members and fans (including Billie Eilish) discussed why they believed the show has maintained its appeal all these years.
In 2021, Brian saddled up for “The Office Deep Dive Podcast” where he'd invite one guest a week to sit a spell, and together, they'd give listeners a peek behind the curtain of making "The Office."
That rodeo ended in February 2022, but you can still catch all the episodes on iHeart Podcasts.
Not one to leave his audience high and dry, Brian kicked off another podcast called "Off The Beat with Brian Baumgartner,” which is meant to celebrate the unexpected moments in life (in the making of TV shows).
The podcast rolls out a fresh episode every week, as regular as clockwork.
"The Office" has no doubt been a big ol' slice of Brian’s successes. But he has also been featured in other shows like Hot in Cleveland (comedy), Law and Order Special Victims Unit, and Criminal Minds.
How Brian Baumgartner Turned Chili into Gold
Ardent office fans know a few of the things that Kevin Malone does best. And making his famous chili to bring his colleagues together tops the list.
He’s really committed to it too—burning the midnight oil the night before, pressin' garlic, choppin' whole tomatoes, toastin' chili peppers, and givin' them onions a light fry so they're just shy of done.
So who can forget that iconic moment when the cameras finally catch him in action, haulin' his famous chili into the office?
Brian Baumgartner’s character Kevin Malone spills chili sauce on a “The Office” US episode
It's no surprise, then, that the tale of the chili sauce didn't just stay cooped up within the walls of Dunder Mifflin Paper Company from Scranton.
There are some things that remain consistent from Kevin’s world, like undercooking the onions, as Brian Baumgartner told the hosts of the Today Food show in February 2023.
Brian Baumgartner and the hosts of the Today Food Show holding bowls of Kevin’s signature chili sauce
What’s interesting is Brian confirms that before the chili scene, he wasn’t a chili guy. But one time, during the football season, he whipped up some chili sauce and slung it up on the internet.
It caused a digital ruckus, a wildfire of likes, shares, and heart-eyed emojis that told Brian one thing: The world wasn't just hankering for Kevin's chili, it was famished for it.
So he did what any self-respecting chili aficionado would do: He went all in, like a poker player pushing his chips to the center of the table.
But instead of cards, Brian’s hands were full of peppers, spices, and an untamable zest for life.
The result was nothing short of a chili magnum opus: The Seriously Good Chili Cookbook, featuring a whopping 177 recipes to tickle your taste buds and maybe squeeze a tear or two (out of pure joy, you betcha).
Brian Baumgartner holding cooking pots and a copy of the Seriously Good Chili Cookbook
The book, published in September 2022, is a regular chili roundup ranging from vegetarian chili, Brian’s seriously good chili, and even Kevin’s famous chili, among others.
Brian’s love for chili also led him to partner with Bush Beans for National Chili Day in 2020. You take the point; he takes chili dishes as seriously as we Texans do.
Brian Baumgartner holding a ladle with some Bush Beans chili sauce
We take it so seriously that Governor Dolph Briscoe declared it the official state dish of Texas in 1977. The Seriously Good Chili Cookbook rustles up a recipe that tips its hat to our Texan roots, named the Texas chili.
If you’re looking to add some spice to your Texan meals, we reckon you give any of the recipes in the cookbook a whirl.
Apart from Brian, it's got a heap of know-how from renowned chefs, restaurant owners, and world championship chili cook-off winners (as it oughta be), so it's comprehensive. Here’s what some buyers said of the book:
Off-Screen Athlete: How Brian Baumgartner Makes His Sporting Mark
Fans who've been riding shotgun on Brian's life journey might know he's partial to a good game of tennis. But a lesser-known tidbit is that as a youngster, he fancied himself as a baseball player.
On episode 273 of The Viall Files podcast, Baumgartner shared how his foot was slightly twisted from the knee since birth, a condition that'll put a hitch in your get-along when it comes to running.
He ended up having corrective surgery at age 13 but the cast that was placed after ended up burning through the Achilles tendon at the back of his leg. That set Brian to thinking that maybe, just maybe, a professional baseball career wasn't in the cards for him.
But true to that "never say die" Texan grit, Brian took to golf for some fun after college. It soon became more than an escape from dark theaters, if his golf handicap is anything to go by.
Brian Baumgartner golf swing at the American Century Championship in July 2023
Usually, the lower a cowpoke's golf handicap, the sharper they are at playing golf.
According to WWLG, Baumgartner’s golf handicap is 9. This is lower compared to the scores of other actors like Adam Sandler, whose golf handicap is 12. So, Brian's swingin' his clubs mightier fine, yessir.
This is also evidenced by his golf pursuits over the years. He's teed off in biggest games like the American Century Championship and the BMW Charity Pro-Am golf tournament. Ain't that something?
Brian Baumgartner holding a champagne bottle at an American Century Championship golf tournament
Don't you just get a kick out of the unbridled joy Brian's showing here?
Brian Baumgartner readying himself to take a swing
In the picture above, gone is the jovial chili-spilling Kevin Malone. In his place stands a man whose focus could rival a PGA pro. He’s probably thinking, why waste time miss putt, when hole-in-one do trick?
Brian Baumgartner: A Man for All Seasons
Few characters have stuck to our ribs like Kevin Malone from "The Office" in this modern-day rodeo of pop culture.
But as we've moseyed on past Scranton's Dunder Mifflin, we've come to know that Brian Baumgartner—the man stirring the chili pot—is a riddle wrapped up in an enigma, worth every minute spent unraveling.
From the early beginnings that shaped his lovable character to a financial acumen that defies stereotype, Brian proves to be a man for all seasons.
Whether he's stirrin' up a storm in the kitchen, swinging a golf club with finesse, or walking through Texas in his beloved Chisos boots, Brian Baumgartner shows us that he’s more than a one-dimensional character on a screen.
Will and Brian Baumgartner are absolutely photogenic in their cowboy boots
Our love for the great state of Texas—and enthusiasm for cowboy boots—motivates just about all that we do. On this blog, we write about community stories, local news and what goes into making the best damn comfortable cowboy boots money can buy. Y'all make it possible for our little boot shop to exist. Don't hesitate to reach out! Call or text 512-866-7222 or howdy@chisos.com
