Garrett Morris is a name that commands respect across generations of comedy lovers. As one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live (SNL) and a familiar face in television sitcoms like 227 and The Jamie Foxx Show, Morris helped shape the landscape of American comedy. As of 2025, Garrett Morris’s net worth is estimated to be between $300,000 and $3 million, though official figures vary depending on the source.
This range reflects a long and storied career that spans acting, music, and writing — a career marked by both triumphs and challenges. Despite facing setbacks and periods of financial instability, Garrett Morris remains an enduring figure in Hollywood with a legacy that transcends wealth alone.
Early Life and Background
Garrett Morris was born on February 1, 1937, in New Orleans, Louisiana, during a time of significant racial and cultural change in the United States. Raised in a religious household, he was musically gifted from a young age and developed a deep appreciation for jazz and classical performance.
Before entering the world of comedy, Morris pursued a serious education in the arts. He graduated from Dillard University and later attended the prestigious Juilliard School of Music in New York City. This classical training helped him develop a refined sense of performance and timing — skills that would later serve him well in comedy.
Early Career: From Stage to Screen
Before his television fame, Garrett Morris had already established himself as a talented performer in New York’s theater scene. He was part of the Black Arts Repertory Theatre, working alongside legends like Amiri Baraka during the 1960s. He also performed with the Harry Belafonte singers, showcasing his versatile vocal abilities.
His early stage performances allowed him to blend his musical talents with comedy, giving him a unique edge that would set him apart once he entered the television world.
Breakthrough with Saturday Night Live
Garrett Morris made history as one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live when the show debuted in 1975. Alongside John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Gilda Radner, and Chevy Chase, Morris was part of a team that revolutionized sketch comedy on American television.
However, his experience on SNL was mixed. While Morris delivered memorable characters — such as News for the Hard of Hearing translator and the baseball legend Chico Escuela (“Baseball been berry, berry good to me!”) — he often spoke about the racial and creative limitations he faced as one of the few Black performers on the show. Despite these struggles, SNL catapulted him into national fame and became the foundation for his future career.
During his time on SNL, Morris earned a steady income that would have been significant for the 1970s era of television. Although not enormous by modern standards, this period marked the start of his financial independence and public recognition.
Television Success: 227, The Jamie Foxx Show, and Beyond
After leaving SNL in 1980, Garrett Morris transitioned into television acting, appearing in several hit shows and films throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
- 227 (1985–1990)
Morris gained renewed fame for his role as Stan Winters on the hit NBC sitcom 227, which starred Marla Gibbs and Jackée Harry. His performance showcased his comedic timing and charm, making him a fan favorite. The show’s success brought him financial stability and further solidified his reputation as a reliable television actor.
- The Jamie Foxx Show (1996–2001)
In the late 1990s, Garrett Morris reached a new generation of fans with his role as Uncle Junior King on The Jamie Foxx Show. This sitcom became one of the highlights of his later career, earning him consistent paychecks and cementing his status as a comedy legend for both older and younger audiences.
- 2 Broke Girls (2011–2017)
In his later years, Morris found mainstream recognition again through his role as Earl Washington, the witty and lovable cashier on CBS’s 2 Broke Girls. The show ran for six seasons and introduced him to yet another generation of television viewers. This role provided a steady income and reaffirmed his long-standing presence in Hollywood.
Film Roles and Other Projects
In addition to television, Garrett Morris appeared in numerous films, including:
- Car Wash (1976)
- The Census Taker (1984)
- How High (2001)
- Ant-Man (2015)
His film work, though not always financially massive, contributed to his overall wealth and helped sustain his career longevity. Each role reflected his versatility and enduring charisma on screen.
Setbacks and Challenges
Garrett Morris’s financial journey has not always been smooth. In 1994, he was shot during a robbery attempt in Los Angeles, an incident that left him seriously injured and temporarily derailed his career. He took a hiatus from acting while recovering, which affected his income during the mid-1990s.
Additionally, like many entertainers of his era, Morris faced unequal pay and limited opportunities compared to his white counterparts. These industry realities contributed to his relatively modest net worth today, despite his vast contributions to comedy and television history.
Other Income Sources
Although acting remains his primary source of income, Morris has also earned money through:
- Comedy clubs and live performances — He occasionally performs stand-up and hosts events.
- Guest appearances — Including TV guest spots, interviews, and retrospectives on SNL and Black comedy history.
- Royalties and residuals — From reruns of 227, The Jamie Foxx Show, and 2 Broke Girls.
These ongoing revenue streams, while modest, continue to provide financial support in his later years.
Philanthropy and Legacy
Beyond fame and money, Garrett Morris has always emphasized giving back. He’s supported programs for young Black artists, promoted diversity in entertainment, and mentored rising comedians. His resilience and passion for performance have inspired countless others who followed in his footsteps.
Net Worth Breakdown (2025 Estimate)
| Source | Estimated Contribution |
| Early Acting & SNL Career | $100,000 – $200,000 |
| Sitcom Roles | $1 million – $1.5 million |
| Film Roles & Guest Appearances | $100,000 – $300,000 |
| Royalties & Residuals | $50,000 – $200,000 |
| Other Ventures & Performances | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Total Estimated Net Worth (2025) | $300,000 – $3 million |
This wide range reflects the variation in reported estimates and the challenges of accurately tracking income for veteran actors whose earnings span decades.
Cultural Impact
Garrett Morris’s influence on comedy cannot be overstated. As the first Black cast member on SNL, he broke barriers in a space that had been overwhelmingly white. His performances laid the groundwork for future African-American comedians like Eddie Murphy, Chris Rock, and Kenan Thompson.
Even without a billionaire’s bank account, Morris’s true wealth lies in his legacy — the laughter, inspiration, and cultural change he helped create over more than five decades in entertainment.
Conclusion
As of 2025, Garrett Morris’s net worth ranges between $300,000 and $3 million, depending on the source. While that figure may seem modest compared to today’s Hollywood elites, it represents a lifetime of dedication, artistry, and resilience.
From Saturday Night Live to 227 and beyond, Morris has carved out a legacy defined not just by money, but by cultural significance and creative brilliance. His story is one of perseverance — a reminder that true success isn’t measured solely in dollars, but in the lasting joy and inspiration an artist brings to the world.
FAQs
- What is Garrett Morris’s net worth in 2025?
As of 2025, Garrett Morris’s net worth is estimated to be between $300,000 and $3 million, though official figures vary. - What is Garrett Morris best known for?
He is best known as one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live and for his roles in sitcoms like 227, The Jamie Foxx Show, and 2 Broke Girls. - Did Garrett Morris have other careers besides acting?
Yes. Before comedy, he was a classically trained musician and singer, performing with groups like the Harry Belafonte singers. - What challenges has Garrett Morris faced in his career?
He has spoken about racial challenges during his SNL years and survived a serious shooting incident in 1994, both of which affected his career trajectory. - Is Garrett Morris still active in Hollywood?
Yes, Morris continues to make occasional television and film appearances and remains a respected figure in the comedy community.
