Garrett Morris, an American comedian, actor, and singer, has amassed a net worth of $1 million as of 2025. At 88 years old, Morris continues to be a revered figure in the entertainment industry, known for his pioneering work on Saturday Night Live and numerous television and film roles. His career, spanning over six decades, showcases his versatility and resilience in Hollywood.
Who Is Garrett Morris?
Born Garrett Isaac Morris on February 1, 1937, in New Orleans, Louisiana, he had a challenging childhood. His mother was only 16 when she gave birth to him, and he later revealed that her pregnancy was the result of a rape. Despite these early hardships, Morris found solace in music and performance, influenced by his grandfather, a Methodist preacher. By the age of five, he was singing gospel and blues, which would shape his artistic path.
Morris pursued his education at Dillard University and the Juilliard School of Music, where he honed his skills before moving to New York to perform with the Harry Belafonte Singers in the late 1950s. His early career also saw involvement with Harlem’s Black Arts Repertory Theatre/School, which frequently faced scrutiny from authorities.
How Did Garrett Morris Start His Career?
Morris made his television debut in a 1960 episode of CBS Repertoire Workshop and later appeared on General Hospital in 1963. His first film role came in 1970 with Where’s Poppa?. However, his big break arrived in 1975 when he joined the inaugural cast of Saturday Night Live (SNL). As one of the first Black cast members, Morris played a crucial role in diversifying the sketch comedy scene. His iconic characters included Chico Escuela, a Dominican baseball player, and Grant Robinson, Jr., in The Nerds sketches. He also delivered memorable impressions of Martin Luther King Jr., Muhammad Ali, and Sammy Davis Jr.
What Were Morris’ Major Roles After SNL?
After leaving SNL in 1980, Morris took on numerous roles in both television and film. His notable appearances include:
- Television: The Jeffersons (1983–1984), Hunter (1986–1989), Martin (1992–1995), The Jamie Foxx Show (1996–2001), and 2 Broke Girls (2011–2017).
- Films: Car Wash (1976), Coneheads (1993), How High (2001), The Longshots (2008), and Ant-Man (2015).
Morris was also a Broadway performer, featuring in Hallelujah, Baby! and Ain’t Supposed to Die a Natural Death.
What Challenges Did Morris Face in His Personal Life?
In 1994, Morris was a victim of an attempted mugging in South Central Los Angeles, where he was shot. The bullet lodged in his spine, and he had to undergo multiple surgeries. He spent over a month in the hospital, yet he remained dedicated to his craft, even filming a scene for Martin from his hospital bed. The shooter was later arrested and, according to Morris, was beaten up in prison by fellow inmates who were his fans.
Morris married former dancer Freda in 1996, but their marriage ended in separation in 2002, with a formal divorce filed in 2008.
How Has Morris Been Recognized for His Contributions?
Throughout his career, Morris has received numerous accolades for his impact on comedy and the Black community. In 2007, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa declared February 9 as “Garrett Morris Day,” honoring his contributions. Morris also co-owned Garrett Morris’ Downtown Blues & Comedy Club, which became a well-known venue in Los Angeles.
In 1979, he was part of the SNL team nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award. Later, in 2002, he earned a Film Independent Spirit Award nomination for Jackpot.
Where Does Garrett Morris Live?
Morris has lived in Los Angeles for several decades. In 1999, he purchased a 1,308-square-foot home in Burbank, California, for $273,500. The residence features three bedrooms and two bathrooms, serving as his primary home.
What Is Garrett Morris’ Legacy?
Garrett Morris remains a trailblazer in the entertainment industry. As the first Black cast member of SNL, he paved the way for future generations of comedians. His extensive body of work, from sketch comedy to sitcoms and films, showcases his incredible versatility. Despite setbacks, including a violent attack, he has continued to entertain and inspire audiences worldwide.
Even at 88, Morris still makes occasional television appearances, demonstrating his enduring talent. His journey from a struggling young performer to an influential Hollywood figure is a testament to his resilience and dedication to the craft.
With a net worth of $1 million, Morris’ wealth may not match that of some of his Hollywood peers, but his cultural and comedic legacy is priceless.
