David Alan Grier

David Alan Grier, an actor and comedian, has made significant contributions to stage and screen alike. He rose to prominence through his roles in the American sketch comedy television series "In Living Color" and as Reverend Leon Lonnie Love on the Fox comedy series "Martin." He made his film debut in "Streamers," directed by Robert Altman, and won the Volpi Cup for Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival for his performance. Grier has also appeared in numerous other films such as "A Soldier's Story," "Boomerang," "Jumanji," "Baadasssss!," "Bewitched," "They Cloned Tyrone," "The Color Purple," and "The American Society of Magical Negroes".

On stage, Grier's performances have been equally noteworthy. He won the Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play for his role in the Broadway revival of "A Soldier's Play." He received Tony nominations for his roles in "The First," "Race," and "Porgy and Bess." Grier's television work is extensive, with roles in "Damon," "DAG," "Life with Bonnie," "The Carmichael Show," "The Wiz Live!" and "A Series of Unfortunate Events." He also created and executive-produced the American satirical show "Chocolate News" for Comedy Central and starred in "The Patient" on Hulu.

Grier's recent endeavors include being the announcer for the 96th Academy Awards and joining the cast of the 2023 musical remake of "The Color Purple" as Pastor Avery. He also co-stars in the medical mockumentary series "St. Denis Medical." His accolades include the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Television Movie, Mini-Series or Dramatic Special for "The Wiz Live!" and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Featured Actor for "A Soldier's Play."