Brad Garrett, American actor and comedian

Bradley Henry Gerstenfeld, professionally known as Brad Garrett, is an American actor and stand-up comedian whose towering physical presence and distinctive deep voice have made him a recognizable figure across various entertainment platforms. Born on April 14, 1960, Garrett has cultivated a versatile career, seamlessly transitioning from the demanding world of stand-up comedy to beloved television sitcoms and a wide array of memorable film roles, including extensive voice work.

Early Career and Stand-Up Foundations

Garrett's journey into show business began with considerable success in the vibrant stand-up comedy scene of the early 1980s. Known for his imposing stature, deadpan delivery, and often self-deprecating humor, he quickly established himself as a prominent voice. This early success on the comedy circuit provided him with a strong foundation, paving the way for his eventual expansion into acting.

A Household Name: From Stand-Up to Sitcom Star

Building on his comedic momentum, Garrett began appearing in television and film in the late 1980s, initially in minor and guest capacities. However, it was his pivotal role as the often-downtrodden, yet endearing, police officer Robert Barone on the critically acclaimed CBS sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond that cemented his status as a household name. Debuting on September 13, 1996, and running for an impressive nine seasons, the series chronicled the humorous domestic life of the Barone family. Garrett's portrayal of Robert, the perpetually overshadowed older brother to Ray Romano's character, earned him widespread praise for its blend of physical comedy, emotional depth, and relatable sibling rivalry. This role not only garnered him immense popularity but also significant critical recognition, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards.

Versatility Beyond Comedy: Dramatic Depth

Beyond the comedic brilliance of Everybody Loves Raymond, Garrett showcased his dramatic range with a critically lauded performance as legendary entertainer Jackie Gleason in the 2002 television film Gleason. His remarkable transformation and nuanced portrayal earned him an Emmy nomination, demonstrating his ability to tackle complex, real-life characters with compelling authenticity.

A Prolific Presence: Film and Voice Acting

Garrett's distinctive vocal talents, characterized by their deep resonance, have made him a highly sought-after voice actor in animation. His extensive filmography includes a variety of memorable roles, both on-screen and behind the microphone.

Selected Film and Voice Roles:

• Casper (1995)
• A Bug's Life (1998) – Providing the voice of Dim, the rhinoceros beetle.
• An Extremely Goofy Movie (2000)
• Stuart Little 2 (2002)
• Finding Nemo (2003) – As Bloat, the pufferfish.
• Garfield (2004)
• The Pacifier (2005)
• Ratatouille (2007) – Lending his voice to Gusteau.
• Tangled (2010)
• Hoodwinked Too! Hood vs. Evil (2011)
• The Incredible Burt Wonderstone (2013)
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows (2016)
• Christopher Robin (2018)

In addition to these, he is famously known for voicing the Big Dog on the animated series Two Stupid Dogs, a role that further solidified his reputation in the voice-acting community. His live-action television work also includes the leading role of Eddie Stark on the Fox sitcom 'Til Death, which ran from 2006 to 2010, and a starring role in the ABC sitcom Single Parents from 2018 to 2020. In 2021, Garrett expanded his creative contributions by helping to co-create Disney+'s basketball dramedy Big Shot alongside David E. Kelley and Dean Lorey, highlighting his multifaceted involvement in television production.

Accolades and Enduring Presence

Throughout his illustrious career, Brad Garrett has been recognized for his exceptional talent with three prestigious Primetime Emmy Awards, accompanied by three additional nominations, primarily for his work on Everybody Loves Raymond. Even today, Garrett remains a significant figure in the entertainment industry. He continues to perform stand-up comedy regularly, showcasing his enduring passion for the art form. A testament to his commitment to comedy, he owns and operates Brad Garrett's Comedy Club at the renowned MGM Grand in Las Vegas, a premier venue where audiences can experience his unique brand of humor firsthand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brad Garrett

Who is Brad Garrett?

Brad Garrett is an acclaimed American actor and stand-up comedian, widely recognized for his deep voice, imposing stature, and versatile performances in both comedic and dramatic roles across television and film.

What is Brad Garrett most famous for?

He is most famous for his role as Robert Barone on the highly popular CBS sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond, a performance that earned him multiple Primetime Emmy Awards and made him a beloved television personality.

Has Brad Garrett won any awards?

Yes, Brad Garrett has won three Primetime Emmy Awards, specifically for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his work on Everybody Loves Raymond. He has also received additional nominations.

Does Brad Garrett still perform stand-up comedy?

Absolutely. Brad Garrett remains active in stand-up comedy and regularly performs at his own venue, Brad Garrett's Comedy Club, located at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

What are some of Brad Garrett's notable voice acting roles?

His distinctive voice has brought many animated characters to life, including Dim in A Bug's Life, Bloat in Finding Nemo, Gusteau in Ratatouille, and the iconic Big Dog in Two Stupid Dogs, among many others.