Veteran comedian and actor Garrett Morris is responding with humor after a photo shared by actress Taraji P. Henson sparked widespread conversation online and unexpectedly turned the 89-year-old entertainer into a viral topic.
The image, which Henson briefly posted on social media before deleting it, showed the pair posing together at a recent Broadway event. While the post featured several high-profile celebrities, online attention quickly shifted to Morris after social media users focused on what appeared to be a noticeable bulge beneath his clothing.
The photo circulated across multiple platforms before being removed. Within days, Morris addressed the growing discussion in a video shared through his own social media channels.
“It seems I’ve caused quite a stir because of a recent photo where it looks like I have a baby boa constrictor between my legs,” Morris said in the video. “Now, I don’t mind holding up these stereotypes usually given to Black men. But ladies and gentlemen, I’m more than a body. I’m a brain too.”
Rather than shy away from the attention, Morris used the moment to promote his upcoming memoir and remind followers of his decades-long career in entertainment.
Turning a Viral Moment Into a Message
Morris, best known as one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live, joked that the unexpected attention was unlike anything he had experienced throughout his career.
“And since you are all up in my business right now, I want you to be all up in my book,” he said while referencing his forthcoming memoir, Ain’t That a Btch*.
The comedian then reflected on his long history in show business.
“I have been with Emmy winners, Oscar winners, Tony winners, and never did I think I would be upstaged by my penis,” Morris said.
His response drew praise from many fans, who applauded the actor for handling the situation with self-deprecating humor. Others noted how Morris transformed an awkward viral moment into an opportunity to discuss his work and engage with supporters.
A Career That Spans Generations
Morris remains a respected figure in television history. In addition to his groundbreaking work on Saturday Night Live, he appeared in popular series including The Jamie Foxx Show, Martin and 2 Broke Girls. His contributions helped pave the way for future generations of Black comedians and performers.
The viral photo emerged during a celebration surrounding Henson’s Broadway appearance in Joe Turner’s Come and Gone. The actress had shared photos featuring several notable entertainment figures. However, social media commentary quickly centered on Morris rather than the event itself.
Before ending his video message, Morris shifted from comedy to civic engagement. He encouraged followers to participate in elections and remain active in their communities.
“I want you to vote, okay?” Morris said. “I was here during that Civil Rights Movement. I actually saw Martin Luther King preach about us fighting for our rights.”
For Morris, the unexpected spotlight became another chance to entertain audiences while reminding them of the larger issues he believes deserve attention.