About
Fred Armisen, born December 4, 1966, is a highly acclaimed comedian, actor, writer, producer, and musician. He gained widespread recognition as a cast member on Saturday Night Live (SNL) for his diverse range of characters and impressions, including his memorable portrayal of President Barack Obama. Beyond SNL, Armisen has established himself as a creative force in television, most notably as the co-creator and star of the Emmy-nominated IFC sketch comedy series Portlandia, alongside Carrie Brownstein. He's also showcased his acting talents in the Amazon series Forever, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile performer.
Before Fame
Before embarking on his comedy career, Armisen pursued his passion for music. He attended New York's School of Visual Arts, initially focusing on a career in the arts before finding his niche as a rock drummer. This musical background has often been incorporated into his comedic work, adding another layer to his performances.
Career Highlights
Armisen's career took off with appearances on Late Night with Conan O'Brien and Crank Yankers, showcasing his early comedic talents. His tenure on Saturday Night Live cemented his place as a comedic icon. Following SNL, he co-created and starred in Portlandia, a critically acclaimed sketch comedy series that earned him multiple Emmy nominations. He played Oscar in the series Forever and Uncle Fester in Wednesday. He has also lent his voice to animated characters like Brainy Smurf in The Smurfs movie. His film credits include roles in Anchorman, alongside Will Ferrell, and voice work in The LEGO Ninjago Movie.
Trivia
- Armisen is known for his impressive repertoire of celebrity impersonations, including Steve Jobs and Prince.
- He voiced the character Brainy Smurf in the 2011 film The Smurfs.
- He played Uncle Fester in the Netflix series Wednesday.
Family Life
Armisen's personal life has been subject to public interest. He was previously married to British singer and songwriter Sally Timms. He later married actress Elisabeth Moss in 2009, but the marriage ended in divorce in 2011. In 2014, he began a relationship with Orange Is the New Black star Natasha Lyonne, which concluded in 2022.
