Harry Anderson

Biography

Harry Anderson, best known for his roles on television's Night Court and Dave’s World, was one of the busiest and highest paid magicians on the comedy circuit before becoming an international TV star. Performing as “Harry the Hat,” he toured the United States, developing a fantastic act and a huge following.

On television, he played wacky Manhattan Judge Harold T. Stone on NBC’s Night Court for its entire nine-season run from 1984 until 1992. Millions of viewers made this politically incorrect courtroom farce their guilty pleasure, as the show racked up 29 Emmy nominations, four Emmy Awards, and consistent ratings wins in its time slot.

From 1993 until 1997, Anderson starred in CBS’ hit sitcom Dave’s World. He played Dave Barry, a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist whom is dealing with his life in the suburbs with his wife and two sons.

Anderson’s television credits include hosting the Discovery Channel’s television special The Science of Magic (1997), starring in PMP Productions’ Harvey (1996) and Warner Brothers’ production of Stephen King’s It, and playing Peter Piper in Mother Goose Rock 'n' Rhyme (1990). He has made notable guest appearances on such shows as Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Night Stand, Saturday Night Live, and Cheers.

Anderson currently hosts the annual FOX-TV special Oops: The World's Funniest Outtakes. He continues to perform magic on the comedy circuit and emcee magicians’ conventions. In the CD-ROM Magic: An Insider's View, he guides viewers through the secrets of professional magicians. His is the author of a book about magic entitled Harry Anderson's Games You Can't Lose: A Guide for Suckers (Pocket Books, 1989).

Born on October 14, 1949, in Newport, Rhode Island, he has been married to Leslie Pollack since 1977. They have one daughter.