Who is Martin Short, and why was he so funny as a young performer? Martin Short is a Canadian actor, comedian, writer, and singer. He is best known for his work on the television shows SCTV, Saturday Night Live, and Arrested Development. Short has also starred in numerous films, including Three Amigos!, Father of the Bride, and Mars Attacks!.
Short was born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, on March 26, 1950. He began his career as a stand-up comedian in the early 1970s. In 1975, he joined the cast of SCTV, a Canadian sketch comedy show. Short quickly became one of the show's most popular performers, and he was known for his outrageous characters and his sharp wit. In 1984, Short joined the cast of Saturday Night Live. He was a cast member for three seasons, and he was known for his hilarious impressions of celebrities such as Jerry Lewis, Katharine Hepburn, and Ed Grimley.
After leaving Saturday Night Live, Short continued to act in films and television shows. He has also written several books, including I Must Say: My Life as a Humble Comedy Legend and Short Stories.
Martin Short is one of the most successful and versatile performers in the entertainment industry. He has won numerous awards, including three Primetime Emmy Awards and a Tony Award. He is also a member of the Canadian Comedy Hall of Fame.
Martin Short
Martin Short is a Canadian actor, comedian, writer, and singer. He is best known for his work on the television shows SCTV, Saturday Night Live, and Arrested Development. Short has also starred in numerous films, including Three Amigos!, Father of the Bride, and Mars Attacks!.
- Early Life: Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, on March 26, 1950.
- SCTV: Joined the cast of the Canadian sketch comedy show in 1975.
- Saturday Night Live: Cast member from 1984 to 1986.
- Film Career: Starred in numerous films, including Three Amigos! (1986), Father of the Bride (1991), and Mars Attacks! (1996).
- Television: Starred in the sitcom Arrested Development from 2003 to 2006.
- Awards: Won three Primetime Emmy Awards and a Tony Award.
- Legacy: One of the most successful and versatile performers in the entertainment industry.
Martin Short's early life and career were marked by his involvement in sketch comedy and his breakout role on SCTV. His work on Saturday Night Live further cemented his status as a comedic star, and he has continued to find success in film and television throughout his career. Short is known for his outrageous characters, his sharp wit, and his ability to make audiences laugh.
| Born | March 26, 1950 |
| Birth Place | Hamilton, Ontario, Canada |
| Occupation | Actor, comedian, writer, singer |
| Years Active | 1972-present |
| Spouse | Nancy Dolman (m. 1980) |
| Children | Katherine and Oliver |
Early Life
Martin Short's birthplace and upbringing in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, significantly influenced his early development as a comedian and performer. Growing up in a working-class family, Short was exposed to a diverse range of characters and experiences that would later serve as inspiration for his comedic routines. The city of Hamilton provided a supportive environment for Short's artistic growth, with its vibrant arts scene and close-knit community.
Short's early life experiences in Hamilton shaped his comedic style, which often draws upon observational humor and witty characterizations. His childhood memories and experiences with family, friends, and neighbors provided a rich source of material for his comedic routines. Short's ability to connect with audiences on a personal level stems from his genuine understanding of human nature, which was fostered during his formative years in Hamilton.
In conclusion, Martin Short's early life in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, played a crucial role in his development as a comedian and performer. The city's diverse population, supportive arts scene, and close-knit community provided Short with a wealth of experiences and characters that would later inspire his comedic material. Short's ability to connect with audiences on a personal level is a testament to the formative influence of his early life in Hamilton.
SCTV
Martin Short's involvement with SCTV, the Canadian sketch comedy show, profoundly impacted his early career and solidified his reputation as a rising star in the entertainment industry.
- Early Showcase for Talent: SCTV provided Short with a platform to showcase his comedic abilities and unique brand of humor in front of a wider audience. The show's format allowed him to experiment with various characters and impressions, honing his skills and developing his comedic persona.
- Collaborative Environment: SCTV's collaborative and supportive environment fostered Short's growth as a performer and writer. He worked alongside a talented ensemble cast and writing team, exchanging ideas and pushing each other's creative boundaries. This collaborative process played a significant role in shaping Short's comedic sensibilities.
- National Recognition: SCTV's popularity in Canada brought Short national recognition and established him as a household name. The show's success opened doors for Short to pursue opportunities in film and television, expanding his reach and solidifying his status as a young comedic talent.
In conclusion, Martin Short's involvement with SCTV in 1975 was a pivotal moment in his early career, providing him with a platform to showcase his talent, collaborate with other comedic minds, and gain national recognition. This experience laid the groundwork for his future success in the entertainment industry.
Saturday Night Live
Martin Short's tenure as a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1984 to 1986 marked a significant turning point in his career and played a crucial role in shaping his comedic legacy. SNL provided Short with a national platform to showcase his unique brand of humor and versatility, solidifying his status as a rising star in the entertainment industry.
During his time on SNL, Short became known for his hilarious characters and impressions, including Ed Grimley, the nerdy and excitable reporter; Jackie Rogers Jr., the dim-witted lounge singer; and Nathan Thurm, the flamboyant theater director. These characters became instant fan favorites and showcased Short's ability to create memorable and enduring comedic creations.
SNL also provided Short with the opportunity to collaborate with some of the most talented comedians and writers of the era, including Eddie Murphy, Billy Crystal, and Lorne Michaels. This creative environment fostered Short's growth as a performer and writer, allowing him to hone his comedic skills and develop his unique voice.
Furthermore, Short's success on SNL helped launch his career in film and television. His breakout role as Franck in the 1986 film "Three Amigos!" cemented his status as a leading man and opened the door to a wide range of comedic and dramatic roles.
In conclusion, Martin Short's time as a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1984 to 1986 was a pivotal moment in his career. SNL provided him with the platform, collaborators, and creative freedom to develop his unique comedic voice and launch his successful career in film and television.
Film Career
Martin Short's film career has been marked by his versatility, comedic timing, and ability to create memorable characters. His performances in films such as Three Amigos!, Father of the Bride, and Mars Attacks! showcased his range as an actor and solidified his status as a leading man in Hollywood.
- Three Amigos!: In this 1986 Western comedy, Short played Ned Nederlander, a cowardly traveling performer who is mistaken for a gunfighter. Short's performance was both hilarious and heartwarming, and it helped to establish him as a comedic force.
- Father of the Bride: In this 1991 comedy, Short played Franck Eggelhoffer, the flamboyant wedding planner for the wedding of his daughter Annie (Kimberly Williams). Short's performance was over-the-top and scene-stealing, and it helped to make the film a critical and commercial success.
- Mars Attacks!: In this 1996 science fiction comedy, Short played Jerry Ross, a news anchor who reports on the arrival of Martians on Earth. Short's performance was both funny and poignant, and it helped to make the film a cult classic.
In conclusion, Martin Short's film career has been marked by his ability to create memorable characters and deliver hilarious performances. His work in films such as Three Amigos!, Father of the Bride, and Mars Attacks! has solidified his status as one of the most versatile and talented comedic actors of his generation.
Television
Martin Short's involvement in the sitcom Arrested Development from 2003 to 2006 marked a significant chapter in his career, further showcasing his comedic versatility and cementing his status as a comedic icon. His portrayal of the eccentric and flamboyant character Lucille Bluth in the show brought him widespread recognition and critical acclaim.
- Character Development: Short's portrayal of Lucille Bluth was a masterclass in character creation, bringing to life a complex and unforgettable persona. His ability to embody the character's eccentricities, sharp wit, and dysfunctional family dynamics added depth and relatability to the show.
- Ensemble Cast: Arrested Development featured an ensemble cast of talented actors, each bringing their unique comedic styles to the forefront. Short's chemistry with co-stars Jason Bateman, Michael Cera, and Jessica Walter created a dynamic and hilarious on-screen family.
- Critical Acclaim: Short's performance as Lucille Bluth earned him widespread critical acclaim, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 2005. His portrayal was praised for its originality, humor, and ability to steal every scene he was in.
- Cultural Impact: Arrested Development became a cult classic, attracting a devoted fan base that continues to celebrate the show's unique brand of comedy. Short's character, Lucille Bluth, remains one of the most iconic and quotable characters in television history.
Martin Short's involvement in Arrested Development showcased his comedic brilliance and versatility, solidifying his status as one of the most talented and beloved comedic actors of his generation. Lucille Bluth stands as one of his most memorable and enduring characters, leaving an indelible mark on the world of television comedy.
Awards
The numerous awards Martin Short has won, including three Primetime Emmy Awards and a Tony Award, stand as a testament to his
Short's Emmy Awards were for his work on the sketch comedy show "SCTV" and the sitcom "Arrested Development." His Tony Award was for his performance in the Broadway play "Little Me." These awards recognize Short's versatility as a performer, his ability to bring characters to life, and his comedic timing.
The recognition Short has received through these awards has helped to solidify his status as one of the most successful and respected comedic actors of his generation. His work continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
Legacy
Martin Short's legacy as one of the most successful and versatile performers in the entertainment industry is deeply intertwined with his early experiences and career trajectory as a young artist. His upbringing in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, provided him with a rich tapestry of characters and experiences that would later serve as inspiration for his comedic routines.
Short's involvement with SCTV in 1975 marked a significant turning point, offering him a platform to showcase his comedic abilities and unique brand of humor. Through this experience, he honed his skills, developed his comedic persona, and gained national recognition. This early success laid the groundwork for his future achievements.
Short's tenure on Saturday Night Live from 1984 to 1986 further solidified his status as a rising star. His hilarious characters and impressions became instant fan favorites, showcasing his ability to create memorable and enduring comedic creations. This exposure to a wider audience helped launch his successful career in film and television.
Throughout his career, Short has consistently demonstrated his versatility, starring in numerous films and television shows. His performances in films such as "Three Amigos!", "Father of the Bride," and "Mars Attacks!" showcased his range as an actor and solidified his status as a leading man. His involvement in the sitcom "Arrested Development" brought him widespread recognition and critical acclaim, further cementing his legacy as a comedic icon.
In conclusion, Martin Short's legacy as one of the most successful and versatile performers in the entertainment industry is a testament to his talent, hard work, and unwavering commitment to his craft. His early experiences, combined with his dedication to honing his skills and creating memorable characters, have left an indelible mark on the world of comedy.
FAQs about Martin Short
This section addresses frequently asked questions and misconceptions about Martin Short, providing clear and informative answers for better understanding.
Question 1: What are some of Martin Short's most notable early influences?
Martin Short's early life in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, played a crucial role in shaping his comedic style. Growing up in a working-class family, he was surrounded by diverse characters and experiences that later became the foundation of his observational humor and witty characterizations.
Question 2: How did Martin Short's involvement with SCTV impact his career?
Joining the cast of SCTV in 1975 provided Short with a platform to showcase his comedic talents and develop his unique brand of humor. The show's collaborative environment and supportive cast allowed him to experiment with various characters and impressions, honing his skills and establishing himself as a rising comedic star.
Question 3: What was Martin Short's breakthrough role on Saturday Night Live?
Short's breakout role on Saturday Night Live was Ed Grimley, the nerdy and excitable reporter. This character became an instant fan favorite, showcasing Short's ability to create memorable and enduring comedic creations. Short's time on SNL also allowed him to collaborate with other talented comedians and writers, further developing his comedic voice and launching his successful career in film and television.
Question 4: What is Martin Short's most iconic film role?
One of Martin Short's most iconic film roles is Franck Eggelhoffer in the 1991 comedy "Father of the Bride." Short's portrayal of the flamboyant wedding planner was both hilarious and heartwarming, helping to make the film a critical and commercial success. This role cemented Short's status as a leading man in Hollywood and showcased his versatility as an actor.
Question 5: What awards has Martin Short won?
Martin Short has won numerous awards throughout his career, including three Primetime Emmy Awards and a Tony Award. These accolades recognize his outstanding performances in both television and theater, solidifying his status as one of the most successful and versatile entertainers in the industry.
Question 6: What is Martin Short's legacy in the entertainment industry?
Martin Short's legacy lies in his ability to create memorable characters, deliver hilarious performances, and bring joy to audiences worldwide. His work has left an indelible mark on comedy, and he continues to inspire and entertain generations of fans. Short's dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to making people laugh have solidified his status as one of the most beloved and enduring entertainers of all time.
In conclusion, Martin Short's journey from his early influences to his remarkable achievements is a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication to entertaining audiences. His contributions to comedy have left a lasting impact on the industry, and he remains one of the most respected and admired performers of our time.
Moving on to the next section of the article...
Conclusion
Martin Short's journey from his humble beginnings in Hamilton, Ontario, to his status as one of the most celebrated comedians of our time is an inspiring tale of talent, perseverance, and dedication. Throughout his impressive career, Short has consistently pushed the boundaries of comedy, creating an unforgettable repertoire of characters and delivering performances that have left an enduring legacy on the entertainment industry.
His early experiences in sketch comedy and his breakout role on SCTV laid the foundation for his success, while his tenure on Saturday Night Live cemented his reputation as a comedic genius. Short's ability to bring characters to life, his impeccable timing, and his gift for improvisation have made him a beloved figure in both film and television. His iconic roles in films such as "Three Amigos!" and "Father of the Bride" have solidified his status as a leading man with a knack for delivering both laughter and heart.
As we reflect on Martin Short's remarkable career, we are reminded of the power of laughter to bring people together and to make the world a brighter place. His legacy as a master of comedy will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come, ensuring that his brand of humor remains timeless and universally adored.
