Harry Anderson, born on October 14, 1952, in Newport, Rhode Island, was an American actor, comedian, and magician whose quick wit and charm made him a beloved figure on television.
Best known for his role as Judge Harry Stone on Night Court (1984–1992), Anderson left a unique mark on TV comedy with his offbeat style and love for magic.
Notable Work
- Television: Night Court, Dave’s World, Cheers
- Film: Stephen King’s It (1990)
- Comedy & Magic: Harry Anderson’s Sideshow (1987), Harry Anderson: The Tricks of His Trade (1996)
From Magic to Television Fame
According to Jacksonville, In his early years, Anderson toured extensively as a magician, even performing on The Tonight Show for fellow magic enthusiast Johnny Carson. His talent for blending magic and comedy caught the eye of TV producers, leading to a recurring role on Cheers as Harry “The Hat” Gittes, a con artist with a knack for charming mischief.
This paved the way for his breakout role as Judge Harry Stone on Night Court, where he played a jazz-loving, quirky judge. His performance earned him three Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series.