Garrett Morris

Garrett Morris achieved widespread recognition as a groundbreaking original cast member of Saturday Night Live from 1975 to 1980, holding the distinction of being the show’s first Black cast member. During his influential five-year tenure, Morris originated iconic characters such as Chico Escuela, the Dominican baseball player, and the ‘News for the Hard of Hearing’ translator on ‘Weekend Update.’ He also frequently showcased his classical vocal talents on the program. His work on the seminal NBC series cemented his reputation as an actor and comedian, setting the stage for a diverse and enduring career across film and television. Morris built a strong foundation in the performing arts, having received classical vocal training at the Juilliard School of Music and graduating from Dillard University in 1958.

His career began in the 1960s with performances with The Belafonte Folk Singers and notable roles in Broadway musicals like Hallelujah, Baby! and Ain’t Supposed to Die a Natural Death. In 1960, he collaborated with Pete Seeger and Guy Carawan on the album South African Freedom Songs, reflecting his commitment to socially impactful artistry. Following his impactful run on Saturday Night Live, Morris transitioned seamlessly into a prolific career in television and film, appearing as Jimmy on The Jeffersons (1983-1984) and Arnold ‘Sporty’ James on Hunter (1986-1989).

Beyond his on-screen work, Morris opened The Downtown Comedy Club in Los Angeles, which in 2007 was recognized by then-Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa as the city’s official comedy club. In 2024, Morris was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a prestigious acknowledgment of his extensive contributions to the entertainment industry.