Tommy Davidson’s exceptional range – from stand-up comedy and acting to versatile music accomplishments – have earned him a reputation as an extraordinary performer who delivers no matter the arena. Best known as one of the stars of the hit television show In Living Color, Davidson’s visibility has allowed him to become a household name known for his innovative talent across all platforms. His just-announced forthcoming series, Varnell in which he partners with Martin Lawrence, is one of the most eagerly anticipated of 2025 and has received viral coverage nationwide. They begin shooting in August for late fall premiere.
Davidson started his career as a standup comedian in Washington DC, earning an ardent following. Spotted by major concert promoters, he was first booked as the opening act for Patti LaBelle, Kenny G and Luther Vandross. It wasn’t long before he came to Hollywood and was headlining the biggest rooms and met Robert Townsend. This led to his debut and movie debut, Partners in Crime, the conduit to Keenan Ivory Wayans, who offered Tommy the opportunity to audition. Soon, history was made with ILC.
Davidson starred in Disney Channel’s beloved animated series The Proud Family (2001-05) and now is the main star in its current hit, “The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder” (Disney +) with new episodes premiering August 6th . Other recent guest starring credits include comedy series Poppa’s House opposite Damon Wayans and The Neighborhood (both CBS), VH1’s hit A Black Lady Sketch Show; the Nick Cannon-directed Miracles Across 125th Street, BET+’s The Ms. Pat Show, Netflix’s Sarah Cooper: Everything’s Fine.
The multihyphenate is perhaps best known for starring in the groundbreaking sketch comedy series In Living Color and becoming a standout with his impressions of Sammy Davis Jr., Michael Jackson and other entertainment icons. His performance on the series resulted in three Showtime specials: On Strength of New York, Illin’ in Philly, and Takin’ it to DC. Davidson also hosted and starred in the network’s Chocolate Sundaes Comedy Show, as well as three seasons of ABC’s Vacation Creation.
Davidson voiced the series regular role of Cream Corn in the Adult Swim action-comedy spoof Black Dynamite, and has also made multiple guest appearances on shows like MTV’s Wild ‘N Out, BET’s Real Husbands of Hollywood ABC’s Celebrity Wife Swap and guest stars on a number of series from CBS’ Poppa’s House opposite Damon Wayans to BET’s award-winning Ms. Pat Show. He co-headlines each spring with Katt Williams, Mike Epps and Martin Lawrence selling out large arenas across the country.
Davidson’s feature credits include Spike Lee’s Bamboozled, Morgan Creek’s Juwanna Mann, Ace Ventura II: When Nature Calls opposite Jim Carrey, and Strictly Business opposite Halle Berry among others. He also recently starred in the feature documentaries I Am Comic opposite Tim Allen and Lewis Black, and Dying Laughing alongside Jamie Foxx, Kevin Hart, Amy Schumer and Sarah Silverman
His critically lauded music collaboration with one of the greatest bands in history, Earth Wind & Fire for his fourth single, Stronger, released in spring and a huge hit. Previous collabs include Sweet Reunion with multi-Grammy winner Dave Koz, I Know with A-list saxophonist, Richard Elliott and multi-platinum Kid Zero. He has hosted both ABFF Honors 2024 and “Stand Up for the Homeless” tv specials in the past year.
Kensington Books published Davidson’s memoir Living in Color: What’s Funny about Me (2020), recounting his personal triumphs and incredible journey propelling into best seller status and critical lauds.
