Eddie Griffin

Born: 15th June, 1968
Where: Kansas City, Missouri

Eddie Griffin grew up in Kansas City, Missouri, got married when he was sixteen, and divorced a year later.

Once named "the king of hip-hop stand-ups", the bright and energetic comedian won over a large audience with his straight-talking comedy routines.

However, he was to reach even more people as an actor excelling especially in comedic roles, but proving more than capable of dramatic fare as well.

As star of Malcolm & Eddie, one of TV's most successful and long-running sitcoms, Griffin was able to try his hand at other facets of the entertainment industry.

He served as writer, producer and director of select episodes, as well as co-writing the theme song with co-star and former Cosby kid Malcolm-Jamal Warner.

The series also occasionally showcased Eddie's choreography, looking back to his pre-comedy dance career.

The Kansas City native opened a dance studio at the age of 15, and following brief stints in both the US Navy and jail, found himself back choreographing before accepting a bet to take the stage at a comedy club, an effort that won him $50 and, before long, stardom.

The aspiring comedian headed for L.A., where he went on to secure a show at the legendary Comedy Store, and impressed patrons with his perceptions and impersonations.

The following year, he headlined his own CableACE award nominated special, TV Comedy Half-Hour: Eddie Griffin.

Eddie then filmed a flurry of films in 1999, including Picking Up the Pieces, with Woody Allen and Sharon Stone, Deuce Bigalow, starring Rob Schneider, and The Second Coming of Sammy, starring as a homeless man with the gift of prophecy.

These roles, added to Eddie's illustrious stand-up career (with two albums already under his belt) and his thriving sitcom work both as an actor and in various behind-the-scenes capacities, would promise the young performer a prosperous future.