Damon Wayans

Bio:

Damon Wayans is a multi-talented American actor, comedian, writer, and producer known throughout the world for his no-holds-barred comedic genius. Wayans is most fondly remembered for his three seasons as writer and co-star on the Emmy Award-winning series In Living Color. There, he created sketch characters like “Homey the Clown,” “Handiman” and outrageously gay fi lm critic Blaine from “Men on Film” household names. His writing for the series earned him two personal Emmy nominations.
Wayans has had tremendous success in stand-up. After starting his career in 1982 touring the comedy club circuit, he landed a role as a featured player on the famed NBC series “Saturday Night Live”. Wayans went on to star in his own critically acclaimed HBO specials, “One Night Stand,” “The Last Stand” and “Still Standing”.

His career boasts a wide range of roles in both fi lm and television, including a TV remake of the hit movie franchise, “Lethal Weapon” for FOX, and “413 Hope Street,” which was nominated for a People’s Choice Award. He served as an executive producer on Waynehead, a Saturday morning animated cartoon for the WB. On the big screen, Wayans has starred in Spike Lee’s critically acclaimed fi lm “Bamboozled”. He also starred and executive produced independent fi lm, “Harlem Aria”. Other feature fi lm credits include starring roles in Major Payne, Blankman and Mo Money, all of which he also wrote an executive produced. He can also be seen in: “The Great White Hype,” “Celtic Pride,” “The Last Boy Scout,” “Earth Girls are Easy,” “I’m Gonna Git You Sucka,” “Colors,” “Punchline,” “Hollywood Shuffl e,” “Roxanne Beverly Hills Cop,” “Cinnamon” and many more.

In 2006, Wayans created, executive produced and starred in the hilariously comedic sketch show “The Underground”. In 2008, the comedian announced the debut of “WayOutTV” with his vision to taking “In Living Color” to the internet. Wayans described the venture as “In Living Color 2.0,” where he would allow viewers to share, rate and leave comments on the sketches.
Not only is Wayans hilarious, but a New York Times Bestselling author. In 1999, he penned “Bootleg,” a humorous compilation of his observations on family, children, marriage and politics. The book was a tremendous success and quickly made the New York Times Bestseller List.

In March 2024, he released not only one novella but two; the fi rst being “Super Niger: Yo, I Got Superpowers!” With plenty of humor and heart, “Super Niger” is the story of an ordinary man rising to the extraordinary challenge of becoming a true hero. The second novella with its colorful characters, witty humor, and plenty of twists, “Welcome to Wastebook” is a satirical yet feel-good comedy that promises big laughs and even bigger heart. In May of 2010, Damon showed a serious and empathetic side that he fabulously showcases in his debut novel “Red Hats,” an utterly extraordinary fi rst novel that weaves inspiration and hope into an original storyline that immediately captivates readers with its powerful take on modern-day life.

Damon Wayans wrapped five seasons of the hit ABC series “My Wife and Kids” in 2005, which he co-created and executive produced. The show is currently streaming on Hulu and Netflix and is in syndication worldwide. The series received numerous awards, including the 2002 People’s Choice for Favorite New Television Comedy Series, and Favorite Male Performer in a New Television Series for his portrayal as Michael Kyle.
Wayans is known for his sharp wit, versatile acting skills, and contributions to comedy. He comes from a family deeply rooted in entertainment, with siblings Keenen, Kim, Marlon, and Shawn also making their mark in the industry.
Damon can be seen in the feature “Cinnamon”. And most recently as the writer, executive producer and star of CBS' “Poppa's House”.