David Alan Grier

Although David Alan Grier has been known for his ability to create comedy and humor, the graduate of the Yale School of Drama has successfully made the diverse jump from theatre to television to film and still alternates between all three. Trained in... more »

Although David Alan Grier has been known for his ability to create comedy and humor, the graduate of the Yale School of Drama has successfully made the diverse jump from theatre to television to film and still alternates between all three.

Trained in Shakespeare at Yale, Grier began his professional career on Broadway as Jackie Robinson in “The First,” for which he earned a Tony nomination in 1981. He then joined the cast of “Dreamgirls,” went on to star opposite Denzel Washington in “A Soldier’s Play,” and both actors continued their roles in the film version, “A Soldier’s Story.” Grier starred on Broadway in “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.” He has also performed at the New York Shakespeare Festival in productions of “Richard III” and “The Merry Wives of Windsor” at Central Park.

Grier’s television credits are abundant.   Grier is well known as being a principle cast member of the acclaimed television series “In Living Color,” where he helped to create some of that show’s most memorable characters, and also as a co-star on Bonnie Hunt’s hit ABC comedy “Life With Bonnie.”   He also starred on the hit NBC show “DAG” where he played the title character, as well Keeping his close comedic relationship with the Wayans’ brothers, he co-starred with Damon Wayans in “Damon.” He also starred in the television miniseries “The 60s,” and “King of Texas” for cable television.

In addition Grier has gained recognition for his numerous feature film roles, including “Baadasssss!” for director Mario Van Peebles, “The Woodsman” opposite Kevin Bacon and Mos Def, “15 Minutes,” “Boomerang,” “Bewitched,” “Jumanji” and Robert Altman’s “Streamers,” for which he won a Golden Lion Award for Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival. David also co-wrote, produced and appeared in the independent film “Poker House,” Lori Petty’s directorial debut. 

David is currently in production on a series called “The Chocolate News” at Comedy Central, which is executive producing as well as host and write; the series, which premiered on October 15th after the season premiere of South Park, is a mock newscast featuring African-American anchors and issues.  « less