A popular comedian turned actor who started his career on-stage as a
dare, funnyman Eddie Griffin's has built an ever-growing fan base which
led to his first starring role in 2002's Undercover Brother.
Born in Kansas City, MO, Eddie was voted class clown three years in a
row in high school. By the age of 16, he was choreographing the Kansas
City Chiefs half-time shows. One night, a couple of friends dared him
to perform at the local comedy club. He was originally supposed to be
on stage for 3 minutes, but instead performed off-the-cuff for 45
minutes successfully. Soon developing a personal style reminiscent of
such classic comedians as Richard Pryor and Redd Foxx, Griffin gained
further exposure in a series of impromptu performances at Los Angeles'
popular Comedy Store. After only 2 short months in Los Angeles, Griffin
was chosen to open for Andrew Dice Clay at Madison Square Garden that
kicked off a 22-city tour.
Quickly following with performances on HBO's Russell Simmons' Def Comedy
Jam and a Cable Ace Award-nominated special, Griffin began branching
out into acting. Roles in such films as The Last Boy Scout "1991",
Coneheads "1993", and Jason's Lyric "1994" soon led to his own sitcom
Malcom and Eddie in "1996", and Griffin's film appearances became more
frequent. After headlining Double Take "2001" alongside Orlando Jones,
Griffin then starred with Denzel Washington in John Q “2002”, earning
him respect as a dramatic actor. Shortly thereafter, his leading-man
status lead to his role as Anton Jackson in Undercover Brother "2002".
Eddie most recently starred alongside Eddie Murphy in Norbit “2007”.
Eddie Griffin has conquered not only the stage, listed on Comedy
Central’s top 100 Greatest Stand-ups of all time, but the silver screen
as well. Eddie has appeared in 47 films and numerous television shows.
In addition to his comedic skills, Griffin is also a gifted Dancer,
Choreographer and Singer.