Introduction
Chris Parnell is a multi-talented actor, comedian, and voice artist who has been entertaining audiences for over two decades. He has appeared in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, and is best known for his work on Saturday Night Live and as the voice of Jerry Smith on the hit animated series, Rick and Morty. In this biography, we will explore the life and career of this versatile performer.
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Education
Chris Parnell was born on February 5, 1967, in Memphis, Tennessee. He grew up in a middle-class family and attended Germantown High School, where he was an active member of the drama club. After completing high school, Parnell went on to study at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, where he received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Drama.
Early Career
After graduating from college, Parnell moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. He landed his first professional gig in 1994, when he was cast as a cast member on the short-lived sketch comedy show, The Edge. He went on to appear in several other TV shows and movies, including Seinfeld, The West Wing, and Jingle All The Way.
Notable Roles and Achievements
Saturday Night Live
In 1998, Parnell joined the cast of Saturday Night Live, where he became known for his impressions of political figures such as George W. Bush and Al Gore. He remained a cast member until 2006 and returned as a guest star in 2008 and 2012. During his time on the show, Parnell also appeared in several popular sketches, including “Lazy Sunday” and “The Chronic of Narnia Rap.”
Voice Acting
Parnell has lent his voice to numerous animated TV shows and movies, including Archer, Bob’s Burgers, and Hotel Transylvania. He is perhaps best known for his role as Jerry Smith on Rick and Morty, which has gained a massive cult following since its debut in 2013.
Other Roles
Aside from his work on SNL and as a voice actor, Parnell has appeared in several movies and TV shows, including 30 Rock, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and Suburgatory. He has also appeared in several commercials, including ads for GEICO and Progressive Insurance.
Personal Life
Marriage and Family
Parnell married his wife, Lisa, in 2002, and the couple has two children together. They currently reside in Los Angeles.
Interests and Hobbies
Parnell is an avid golfer and has participated in several charity golf tournaments over the years. He is also a fan of the Memphis Grizzlies basketball team and often attends their games when he is in town.
Conclusion
Chris Parnell is a talented and versatile performer who has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry. With his impressive range of skills and his ability to bring humor and heart to every role he takes on, it’s no wonder that he has become such a beloved figure in pop culture. Whether he’s making audiences laugh on SNL or bringing his unique voice to animated characters, Parnell is a true master of his craft.
