Black Hollywood treasure Garrett Morris is set to be recognized by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce with his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The ceremony will take place on Feb. 1 at 11:30 a.m. PT, which also happens to be his 87th birthday.
“Garrett Morris is a true entertainment icon and is ready for Prime Time on the Walk of Fame!” said Ana Martinez, producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, in a statement. Director-producer Oz Scott and actress Tichina Arnold will be the guest speakers during Morris’ celebration.
Morris is a Juilliard-trained artist and performed with the Harry Belafonte Singers for a decade while also branching out into acting. He boasts appearances in Broadway and off-Broadway musicals including “Porgy and Bess,” “Show Boat,” “Ain’t Supposed To Die A Natural Death,” and “The Great White Hope.”
He’s also known for his performances on The Wayans Bros., Martin, The Jamie Foxx Show, The Jeffersons, Scandal, All Of Us, Grand Crew, Self-Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker, most recently, 2 Broke Girls, and for being one of the original Saturday Night Live stars.
Under the segment, “News for the Hard of Hearing,” Morris’ spot-on, hilarious impersonations of Idi Amin, James Brown, Sammy Davis, Jr., Bob Marley, and Muhammad Ali made him beloved by generations of viewers..
Artistry aside, the New Orleans native is also an activist who played a pivotal role in desegregating the Actor’s Equity. He was also part of the Black Arts Theater movement alongside poet-playwright Amiri Baraka.
Morris, who now owns and operates the Los Angeles Blues and Comedy Club, was previously recognized in 2007 by the former mayor of L.A. Antonio Villaraigosa for his work and contributions to the Black community.
