Henry Watkins, a celebrated comedian of international renown, originated from the vibrant city of Atlanta, Georgia, where he spent his formative years. Possessing a solid foundation in education, Watkins pursued his academic endeavors at the esteemed Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, and subsequently earned a degree from Columbia University, a prestigious institution in New York City. The early stages of his career in the entertainment industry were marked by a fruitful stint working for the illustrious comedian, actress, and television host, Joan Rivers, an experience that profoundly ignited his passion for comedy, which would only continue to flourish and evolve over time.
Watkins' unwavering dedication to the pursuit of comedy led him to seek out the mentorship of highly acclaimed professionals in the industry, with notable guidance provided by the illustrious Phil Hartman and the accomplished Jason Alexander. His academic endeavors culminated in his graduation from the esteemed Second City Conservatory, a prestigious institution renowned for fostering the talents of aspiring comedians. As a stand-up comic, Watkins has had the privilege of taking the stage at a diverse array of esteemed venues, including the iconic Comedy Store and the renowned The Improv, as well as numerous other comedy clubs and establishments that have earned a reputation for showcasing the best in comedic talent.
Noted comedian and performer, Watkins, has not only established himself as a talented stand-up artist, but has also showcased his versatility by mastering the art of improv and sketch comedy. Throughout his illustrious career, he has had the privilege of taking the stage in hundreds of shows, sharing the spotlight with esteemed groups such as The ACME Comedy Theatre, Patrick Bristow's Improvatorium, and the renowned musical improv group, Second City Sings.
Furthermore, Watkins' impressive resume boasts a multitude of impressive credits, including principal writer-performer and producer roles on several pilots. These notable projects include Slice, The Ghost Boys, and the forthcoming Mane Men, all of which have further solidified his position as a talented and accomplished figure in the world of comedy.
Watkins' extensive television credits are a testament to his remarkable talent, featuring roles in pilots such as Brooke and Totally, as well as notable appearances on a wide range of popular shows, including the long-running soap opera The Young and The Restless, the edgy comedy series Tosh.O, the quirky sitcom The Neighbors, the male-centered comedy Man Up, and the Spike TV documentary series 1000 Ways to Die, where he made a memorable guest star appearance that showcased his impressive acting abilities. Furthermore, he has been handpicked by acclaimed director Christopher Guest to appear in his Census 2010 project, a testament to his ability to adapt to a variety of roles. Additionally, Watkins has demonstrated his impressive range and versatility by appearing as a contestant on the popular game show Jeopardy, where he showcased his extensive knowledge and quick thinking.
Noteworthy among Watkins' extensive professional endeavors is his impressive filmography, which boasts a co-starring role alongside the accomplished Jessica Lange in the popular television series American Horror Story. Moreover, his work extends beyond the realms of television and film, as he has made appearances in an astonishing number of over 50 national commercials, thereby establishing himself as a sought-after spokesperson for prominent brands. Notably, his impressive portfolio includes partnerships with esteemed organizations such as Dish Network, Pictsweet Farms, and Direct TV's NASCAR Hot Pass, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and in-demand performer.
Currently occupying a residence in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, Watkins holds a prestigious position as a faculty member at the esteemed Groundlings School, where he dedicates his time and expertise to instructing the art of improv to the next generation of aspiring comedians.
