Damon Wayans, born on September 4, 1960, in New York City, is a talented stand-up comedian, actor, and writer known for his contributions to both television and film. As one of the prolific Wayans brothers, he began his career in 1982 as a stand-up comic and quickly made his mark in the entertainment industry. Wayans' first notable film appearance was a brief yet memorable cameo in the 1984 blockbuster "Beverly Hills Cop," where he played an effeminate hotel employee. His time on "Saturday Night Live" was short-lived; he joined as a featured performer only to be fired for altering his character into a flamboyantly gay cop, allegedly due to frustrations over his sketches not being selected. In 1990, Wayans became a prominent figure on the hit sketch comedy show "In Living Color," which aired until 1992. His work on the show, alongside a talented ensemble cast, earned multiple Emmy nominations and solidified Wayans' reputation for clever and bold comedic performance. Following "In Living Color," Wayans transitioned to film, starring in movies such as "The Last Boy Scout," "Major Payne," and "The Great White Hype." He also showcased his writing talents in the superhero comedy "Blankman," in which he starred. In 1996, Wayans created and produced the animated series "Waynehead," based on his childhood experiences. However, it struggled with ratings and only lasted a season. Wayans continued to expand his television repertoire by producing the FOX drama "413 Hope St." in 1997 and starring in the comedy "Damon" in 1998, where he played a Chicago detective. The latter further displayed his versatility and comedic skills, despite its short run. A significant turning point in Damon Wayans' career came with the ABC sitcom "My Wife and Kids," which aired from 2001 to 2005. The show was a major success, and Wayans became a household name, particularly for his portrayal of Michael Kyle, a sarcastic father of three. The series enjoyed international popularity in countries including the UK, South Africa, India, Brazil, and Italy. In 2005, Wayans was featured in a celebrity ad campaign for Hanes. The following year, he created and starred in "The Underground," a sketch comedy series on Showtime, which also featured his son Damon Wayans Jr. In addition to his work on screen, Wayans authored the New York Times bestselling book "Bootleg" in 1999, offering humorous observations on family, children, marriage, and politics. His diverse body of work showcases his enduring impact and influence in comedy and entertainment.