Garrett Morris is a name that stands tall in the world of comedy and television. As one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live (SNL), he paved the way for future comedians, bringing his unique energy and unforgettable impressions to the screen. With a career spanning over five decades, Morris has starred in numerous TV shows, films, and stage productions, solidifying his legacy as a multi-talented entertainer.
As of 2025, Garrett Morris has an estimated net worth of $1 million. While that figure may not be as high as some of his SNL peers, his impact on comedy and television is immeasurable. His story is one of perseverance, resilience, and raw talent, making him an inspiration to many.
Early Life: A Challenging Start in New Orleans
Born Garrett Isaac Morris on February 1, 1937, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Morris had a challenging start to life. His mother was just 16 years old when he was born, and he later revealed in an emotional 2014 interview that his birth was the result of a tragic assault. Despite these hardships, Morris found solace in music and performance.
His grandfather, a preacher at a Methodist church, introduced him to gospel and blues at a young age. By the time he was four or five, Morris was already singing. Music became his first love, and he pursued it passionately, leading him to attend the prestigious Juilliard School of Music and later Dillard University, where he graduated in 1958.
In the late 1950s, Morris moved to New York City and performed with the Harry Belafonte Singers. His love for the arts later led him to the world of theater and television, setting the foundation for his legendary career.
Saturday Night Live & Breakthrough in Comedy
Garrett Morris made history in 1975 when he became one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live. His tenure on SNL lasted until 1980, during which he became famous for his hilarious impressions and unforgettable characters.
Some of his most iconic SNL characters include:
- Chico Escuela, a Dominican baseball player known for his catchphrase, “Baseball been berry, berry good to me.”
- Grant Robinson, Jr., part of The Nerds sketches.
- Merkon the Conehead, one of the members of the bizarre alien Conehead family.
- Numerous celebrity impersonations, including Muhammad Ali, Bob Marley, James Brown, Richard Pryor, Martin Luther King Jr., and Diana Ross.
While Morris was a comedic powerhouse, he often spoke about the racial challenges he faced as one of the first Black cast members on the show. Despite these obstacles, his contributions to SNL paved the way for future Black comedians like Eddie Murphy, Chris Rock, and Kenan Thompson.
Hollywood Success: TV & Film Career
After his time on SNL, Morris continued to thrive in both television and film. His impressive filmography includes over 100 TV and film credits, proving his versatility as an actor.
Memorable TV Roles
- Stan Winters on Martin (1992–1995) – Morris played Martin Lawrence’s boss, bringing humor and wisdom to the show.
- Uncle Junior King on The Jamie Foxx Show (1996–2001) – Another fan-favorite role where he portrayed Jamie Foxx’s eccentric uncle.
- Earl Washington on 2 Broke Girls (2011–2017) – A beloved character who worked at the diner alongside Kat Dennings and Beth Behrs.
- Recurring roles in hit shows like The Jeffersons, Hunter, ER, The Wayans Bros., and Shameless.
Notable Films
- Cooley High (1975)
- Car Wash (1976)
- Coneheads (1993)
- How High (2001)
- The Longshots (2008)
- Ant-Man (2015) – Morris made a fun cameo in this Marvel hit.
His ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and drama made him a versatile and well-respected actor in Hollywood.
Personal Struggles: Overcoming Hardships
Morris’s life has not been without challenges. In 1994, he was shot during an attempted mugging in South Central Los Angeles. The bullet lodged in his spine, leaving him critically injured. Despite nearly losing his life, Morris miraculously survived.
During his recovery, he even filmed a scene for Martin from his hospital bed. Over the years, he underwent eight surgeries related to the shooting. The incident could have ended his career, but Morris’s resilience and love for acting kept him going.
Personal Life: Marriage & Family
Garrett Morris married Freda Morris, a former dancer, on September 20, 1996. However, the couple separated in 2002, and Morris officially filed for divorce in 2008. While they did not have children together, Morris has always been vocal about the importance of family and community.
Garrett Morris’ Net Worth in 2025
With a career spanning more than five decades, Garrett Morris has built a legacy in Hollywood. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $1 million. While that figure may seem modest compared to other long-time actors, his impact on comedy and Black representation in entertainment is priceless.
His earnings come from his work on SNL, numerous sitcoms, film appearances, and even Broadway performances. His resilience and commitment to his craft have ensured that he remains a celebrated figure in the entertainment industry.
Real Estate: Where Does Garrett Morris Live?
In 1999, Morris purchased a 1,308-square-foot home in Burbank, Los Angeles, for $273,500. This cozy home includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms, offering him a comfortable and private retreat from Hollywood’s spotlight.
Legacy: Honoring Garrett Morris
In 2007, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa honored Garrett Morris for his contributions to Black culture and entertainment, declaring February 9 as “Garrett Morris Day.”
Morris also co-owned The Downtown Comedy Club, later renamed Garrett Morris’ Downtown Blues & Comedy Club, a space dedicated to celebrating comedy and music.
His influence extends beyond the screen, serving as a mentor to many young comedians and actors who look up to him as a pioneer in the industry.
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