Introducing students to the achievements and contributions of influential African American figures is an essential aspect of education. One such icon is Garrett Morris, a versatile actor and comedian whose impressive career spans over five decades. Best known for being an original cast member of Saturday Night Live (SNL), Morris has been an integral part of American entertainment history. This article aims to provide insights into the significance of teaching students about Garrett Morris, his background, and his influence within the industry.
Early life and background
Garrett Morris was born on February 1, 1937, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He grew up in a religious household where his grandfather was a Baptist minister, while his father was a talented singer. Morris discovered his passion for music at an early age and attended Juilliard School of Music before later transferring to Dillard University.
In addition to being a talented musician, Morris had a natural affinity towards comedy which led him to pursue acting as well. His first gig was at The Negro Ensemble Company in New York City, which set the stage for his extensive career.
Breaking Barriers with Saturday Night Live
In 1975, Garrett Morris joined SNL’s original cast, making him one of the first African American entertainers on major network television. During his time on SNL, he gave numerous classic performances that showcased his wit and charisma – portraying characters such as Dominican baseball player Chico Escuela and the interpretive sign-language performer for “News For The Hard Of Hearing.”
Throughout his tenure on SNL, Morris broke racial barriers with his multifaceted talent and unique comedic voice. Despite facing occasional discrimination – including being typecast or having limited opportunities – Morris persisted and continued doing what he loved: making people laugh.
Later Career and Influence
After leaving SNL in 1980, Morris appeared in various TV shows like Martin (1992-1995) and films such as Coneheads (1993). More recently, he was a regular cast member on the sitcom 2 Broke Girls from 2011 to 2017. Over his decades-long career, Morris worked with some of the biggest names in comedy and acted as a mentor and role model for other African American comedians.
Teaching students about Garrett Morris
Incorporating Garrett Morris’s accomplishments and contributions into the educational curriculum acknowledges the importance of black artists in shaping American entertainment history. By teaching students about his life, they can learn valuable lessons about perseverance, creativity, and breaking barriers. Discussions about his early life and background can offer insights into the struggles faced by African Americans during the 20th century.
Moreover, exploring his work on SNL showcases how laughter can be used as a tool for social commentary and change. Lastly, celebrating his later career highlights reminds students that perseverance and hard work truly pay off.
