Introduction
Howard Morris was an American actor, comedian, and director who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. He is best known for his role as Ernest T. Bass on the Andy Griffith Show, but he had a long and varied career that spanned over five decades. In this blog post, we will explore the life and career of Howard Morris, from his early beginnings to his later years as a father and beyond.
Early Life and Career
Howard Morris was born on September 4, 1919, in New York City. He attended City College of New York before serving in the United States Army during World War II. After the war, Morris began his career as a comedian and worked in nightclubs and on television. He became a regular on Sid Caesar’s television show, Your Show of Shows, and also worked on The Steve Allen Show.
Morris was a talented voice actor and provided the voices for many cartoon characters, including Atom Ant, Jughead Jones, and Beetle Bailey. He also directed several episodes of The Andy Griffith Show and other television shows, including The Dick Van Dyke Show and Get Smart.
The Andy Griffith Show
Howard Morris’s most famous role was as Ernest T. Bass on The Andy Griffith Show. Ernest T. Bass was a wild and unpredictable character who often caused trouble in the town of Mayberry. Morris’s portrayal of Ernest T. Bass was so popular that he appeared in eight episodes of the show.
Morris also directed several episodes of The Andy Griffith Show, including the classic episode “Opie the Birdman.” He was known for his ability to bring out the best in the actors and create a relaxed and fun atmosphere on set.
Personal Life
Howard Morris was married to his wife, Dolores, for over 50 years until her death in 2002. They had one daughter, Devra Morris, who is also an actress. Morris was a devoted father and often spoke about how much he loved spending time with his family.
In his later years, Morris suffered from Alzheimer’s disease and passed away on May 21, 2005, at the age of 85. He left behind a legacy of laughter and joy that will never be forgotten.
Legacy
Howard Morris’s contributions to the entertainment industry will always be remembered. He was a talented actor, comedian, and director who brought joy to millions of people. His portrayal of Ernest T. Bass on The Andy Griffith Show is still beloved by fans today, and his work on other shows such as The Dick Van Dyke Show and Get Smart helped to shape the landscape of television comedy.
Howard Morris will always be remembered as a true legend in the entertainment industry, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors and comedians.
