Garrett Morris

Biography for Garrett Morris

Garrett Morris is an American actor and comedian best known for his iconic roles in TV shows from the 1970s to the 1990s. With a career spanning several decades, Morris made a lasting impact with his unique comedic timing and ability to play a wide range of characters. His memorable appearances in shows like Saturday Night Live and 2 Broke Girls helped solidify his reputation as a versatile actor. Despite his age, Garrett Morris remains a beloved figure in the world of TV and entertainment.

Biography

Garrett Morris was born on February 1, 1937, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Raised in a neighborhood deeply entrenched in music and culture, Morris developed an early interest in performing arts. He attended Dillard University in New Orleans before moving to New York City to further pursue his dreams of becoming an actor. Morris quickly found himself immersed in the vibrant theater scene, which laid the groundwork for his later work in television and film.

Garrett’s big break came in the early 1970s when he joined the cast of the groundbreaking sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live (SNL). As one of the original cast members, Morris was part of a comedic revolution that defined the era. His impressions, energetic performances, and ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles endeared him to audiences. Through his involvement with SNL , Morris cemented his place in entertainment history as one of the pioneering African American actors in mainstream television.

Over the years, Garrett Morris went on to appear in a variety of TV shows and films, carving out a career that spanned multiple genres. While his career slowed down in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Morris continued to be a fixture in both television and film, demonstrating his enduring talent and love for acting.

Notable TV Shows

• Saturday Night Live – Featured Performer (1975–1976)
• 2 Broke Girls – Earl (2011–2017)
• The Jamie Foxx Show – Uncle Junior (1996–2001)
• Martin – Garvey (1993–1997)
• The Odd Couple – Felix Ungar (1970s)
• What's Happening!! – Mr. Willis (1976–1979)

Anecdotes

• Garrett Morris was one of the first African American cast members of Saturday Night Live , breaking barriers in the predominantly white comedy scene of the 1970s.
• He became known for his recurring characters on SNL , including his hilarious impression of the "news anchor" and his iconic "What’s up with that?" sketch.
• Morris also made his mark in voice acting, providing the voice for characters in several animated shows, including The Smurfs and The Simpsons .
• Despite being a veteran performer, Garrett Morris’s comedic genius was widely acknowledged by younger generations, especially with his role on 2 Broke Girls , where his portrayal of Earl the diner cook became an audience favorite.
• In addition to his acting, Garrett Morris has enjoyed a rich career in music, having performed with jazz bands in his younger years, and his musical talents have often been reflected in his roles, particularly in comedic sketches that include musical elements.

What are they doing now?

As of recent updates, Garrett Morris continues to act, though his roles have become more sporadic. He remains a respected figure in the entertainment industry, known for his pioneering work and his contributions to TV comedy. His role on 2 Broke Girls helped introduce him to a new generation of fans, and he occasionally appears in interviews and panels reflecting on his storied career. Morris's legacy in TV history is well-secured, and his influence on comedy is undeniable. Though he’s not as active in front of the camera, Garrett Morris’s work will continue to resonate for years to come.

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Author of the card

• Creation date: 10/05/2011 by abdest