David Alan Grier is an American actor and comedian who has been active in the entertainment industry since the early 1980s. He was born on June 30, 1956, in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in a large family with two brothers and two sisters. After attending the University of Michigan, Grier moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting.
During his early years as an actor, Grier appeared in a number of Broadway productions, including "Dreamgirls" and "The First." He gained widespread recognition for his work on the sketch comedy show "In Living Color," which aired from 1990 to 1994. On the show, he played a variety of characters, including the flamboyant Antoine Merriweather and the uptight Mr. Brooks.
In addition to his work on "In Living Color," Grier has also appeared in numerous television shows and films. He has had recurring roles on shows such as "The Carmichael Show," "A Series of Unfortunate Events," and "The Cool Kids." He has also appeared in films such as "Boomerang," "Jumanji," and "The Big Sick."
In recent years, Grier has also become known for his work as a commercial actor. He has appeared in a number of commercials for companies such as KFC, Toyota, and Old Navy. In 2016, he made headlines when he was cast as the first African American Colonel Sanders in a KFC ad campaign.
Despite his success as a commercial actor , Grier has never lost his love for live theater. He has appeared in a number of plays throughout his career and has received critical acclaim for his performances. In 2009, he was nominated for a Tony Award for his role in the play "Race."
Overall, David Alan Grier is a versatile actor and comedian who has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry. Whether he is performing on stage, on screen, or in a commercial, he brings his unique sense of humor and energy to every role he plays.