Cedric the Entertainer

Overview and career highlights

Cedric first earned national attention as part of the wave of African American stand-up comedians who toured and performed filmed specials and documentaries. He was featured in the influential concert film The Original Kings of Comedy, and he later transitioned into television and movies. On television he is widely known for his long-running role on a 1990s sitcom, and he has headlined his own projects while making frequent guest appearances. His film credits include ensemble comedies and family films, and he has become a familiar voice in animated franchises.

Notable roles and projects

• Stand-up and live tours, including the tour and film that brought wider attention to a new generation of Black comedians; see a representative listing of his stage work via career overview.
• Television sitcom work that established his TV profile and led to later projects and guest roles.
• Feature films such as ensemble comedies and family-oriented movies; for example, he appeared in Larry Crowne and in family road comedies like Johnson Family Vacation.
• Voice performances in popular animated series and spin-offs, notably the Madagascar films and the Disney-related aerial franchise Planes.
• Supporting roles in mainstream comedies such as Why Him? that introduced him to broader movie-going audiences.

Comedic style and influence

Cedric's comedy blends observational material about everyday life with character-driven bits and a relaxed delivery that invites audience empathy. His timing and storytelling make him a natural for both stand-up recordings and roles that require a likable, grounded presence. He has influenced younger comedians who admire his ability to move between live performance, television and film without losing a consistent stage identity.

Personal life and public roles

Born in Jefferson City, Missouri, Cedric has balanced a public career with family life; he married Lorna Wells in 1999 and is a father and stepfather. Beyond acting and stand-up he has occasionally taken on hosting duties in broadcast television. In 2013 he became the host of the syndicated game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, a role he stepped into following Meredith Vieira's tenure; he left after one season because of scheduling conflicts and was succeeded by Terry Crews. The program is an example of his work outside traditional comedy circuits and highlights his appeal as a warm, conversational presenter on national television (syndicated broadcast context).

Legacy and distinctions

Across stand-up specials, sitcoms, movies and animated family films, Cedric the Entertainer has carved a niche as a versatile performer whose approachable comedic voice translates across media. His film and television credits reflect both comic supporting work and lead turns that rely on his established persona. For quick access to credits, interviews and recent appearances consult a current filmography or professional profile entry at career resources or reputable entertainment databases (birth and biographical data can be found in such records).

For more details about specific films and roles, industry listings and credited performances are available through entertainment directories and press profiles (filmography, animated credits, voice work). His continuing presence in stand-up and occasional television projects keeps him active in contemporary comedy and family entertainment circles.

Selected film and television highlights:

1. Stand-up specials and tours that helped define his early public reputation.
2. Television sitcoms and guest roles that broadened his audience.
3. Family and ensemble films, including voice work in major animated franchises.

To explore interviews, upcoming appearances or archived performances, consult entertainment listings and official channels for the most current information (selected film, recent comedy roles, television credits).