Robin Harris, born in 1953, was an influential African-American comedian and actor whose sharp wit and distinctive comedic style left a lasting impression. Harris hailed from Chicago, Illinois, where his father worked as a welder and his mother as a factory seamstress. In 1961, the Harris family relocated to Los Angeles, a move that would set the stage for Robin's future in entertainment. He attended Manual Arts High School, where his athletic prowess earned him a track scholarship to Ottawa University in Kansas. It was during his college years that Harris began to refine his comedic craft. To support himself, Harris took on various jobs, working for Hughes Aircraft, a rental car company, and Security Pacific Bank. Despite these commitments, his passion for comedy never wavered. His first performance at the Los Angeles Comedy Store in 1980 received little fanfare, but Harris's persistence and unique voice would soon bring him success. By 1985, as the master of ceremonies at the Comedy Act Theater, Harris became widely recognized for his old-school brand of humor, characterized by his churlish comedic style, quick put-downs, and expressive delivery. Harris's big-screen debut came in 1988 with a role as a smart-ass bartender in the comedy "I'm Gonna Get You Sucka," followed by an impactful role in Spike Lee's "Do The Right Thing" (1989) as Sweet Dick Willie, part of the film's neighborhood "Greek chorus" that offered a thoughtful commentary on the unfolding tensions. His portrayal in "House Party" (1990) as Pop, the no-nonsense, quick-witted father, showcased his comedic timing and added depth to the film. Later in 1990, Harris appeared in a small yet memorable role as a jazz club MC in "Mo' Better Blues." Despite his professional successes, the early months of 1990 proved challenging for Harris, who maintained a rigorous schedule involving extensive travel and long hours. He reportedly experienced respiratory issues and fatigue. While in Chicago for a performance at the Regal Theater, tragedy struck. Harris was found dead in his hotel room on March 18, 1990. His untimely death cut short a burgeoning career, but his legacy endures through the groundbreaking work he left behind.