Garrett Morris was born on February 1, 1937, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He grew up in a musical family and developed a passion for singing at a young age. Morris attended the prestigious Juilliard School of Music to hone his vocal talents, and it was during this time that he realized his comedic gift.
After graduating from Juilliard, Morris began his career in entertainment. He first gained recognition as a soloist with the Harry Belafonte singers and went on to perform in various Broadway musicals. However, it was his time on the original cast of Saturday Night Live in 1975 that catapulted him to fame.
During his five-year stint on SNL, Morris became known for his hilarious characters and memorable sketches. One of his most iconic roles was as the "President of the New York School for the Hard of Hearing" on Weekend Update. Morris's comedic timing and versatility made him a standout cast member.
After leaving SNL, Morris continued to work in television and film. He faced a setback in 1994 when he was shot in a robbery attempt, which forced him to temporarily step away from his role on the sitcom Martin. However, he persevered and returned to the screen, landing roles in popular shows like 2 Broke Girls and films like Ant-Man.
In 1996, Morris tied the knot with Freda Morris, solidifying their partnership and love for each other. Despite the challenges he faced in his career, Morris found strength in his personal life and continued to pursue his passion for entertainment.
Garrett Morris's contributions to comedy and entertainment have left a lasting impact on audiences. His groundbreaking work on SNL paved the way for future African-American comedians and performers, inspiring a new generation of talent. Morris's resilience and dedication to his craft serve as a testament to his enduring legacy in the industry.