John Henton is a name synonymous with laughter and heartwarming television characters. While he’s known to millions for his roles on hit sitcoms like “Living Single” and “The Hughleys,” the journey for Comedian John Henton began far from Hollywood sound stages, in the intimate setting of comedy clubs. Even after achieving television fame, Henton’s dedication to stand-up comedy remains a cornerstone of his career. He continues to hone his craft, write new material, and connect with audiences across the country through live performances. This commitment to his roots, combined with his natural talent, has solidified John Henton’s place as a leading comic talent.
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, John Henton’s path to comedy was not immediately apparent. Initially, his focus was on computer science, pursuing studies while working during the day. However, fate, in the guise of a perceptive co-worker, intervened in 1982. Encouraged to share his jokes on stage at a local comedy club’s amateur night, Henton took the plunge. Success came quickly; by his second performance, he won the amateur night competition. This early victory ignited a passion, and John Henton began his stand-up career part-time, juggling it with his studies and day job.
The lure of full-time comedy proved irresistible. In 1985, John Henton made a pivotal move to Los Angeles, the entertainment industry’s epicenter. By 1988, he was performing stand-up comedy full time, immersing himself in the competitive world of LA comedy clubs. This period of relentless touring and performance honed his comedic voice and stage presence, setting the stage for his national breakthrough.
The year 1991 marked a turning point in comedian John Henton’s career. Winning the prestigious 1991 Johnny Walker National Comedy Search brought him to the attention of Jim McCawley, a comedy executive for “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.” This led to a booking on the iconic late-night show, a dream for any aspiring comedian. Henton’s “Tonight Show” performance was a resounding success. As he finished his set, the ultimate validation came from Johnny Carson himself. Carson, impressed by Henton’s talent, invited him to the guest couch and famously declared, “Well you will have an agent after tonight.” This appearance on “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” served as a massive catalyst, propelling John Henton’s career to new heights.
Following his career-launching “Tonight Show” appearance, comedian John Henton became a sought-after act. He made appearances on other prominent shows like “The Arsenio Hall Show” and “Bob Hope’s Young Comedian’s Special,” and returned to “The Tonight Show,” this time with Jay Leno as host. Showtime recognized his rising star and in January 1993, he starred in his own half-hour comedy special, “John Henton: Comedy With An Attitude.” His comedic appeal resonated with audiences, leading to further performances on platforms like Comedy Central’s “Premium Blend,” where he consistently garnered enthusiastic responses.
April 1993 marked another significant shift in John Henton’s career trajectory – his foray into sitcoms. He was cast in the FOX television series “Living Single,” alongside Queen Latifah, Kim Fields, and Kim Coles. Playing the lovable Overton Wakefield Jones, Henton became a breakout star. TV Guide recognized his character as one of the standout personalities of the 1993 fall season. “Living Single” enjoyed remarkable success for five seasons, solidifying John Henton’s position in television. His portrayal of Overton resonated deeply with viewers, earning him a loyal fanbase.
After “Living Single,” John Henton seamlessly transitioned to another successful sitcom, “The Hughleys.” He played the character of Milsap, further showcasing his comedic range and ability to connect with audiences in different roles. “The Hughleys” initially aired on ABC before moving to UPN for its third and fourth seasons, contributing to UPN’s strong Monday night lineup. His work on “The Hughleys” earned him two NAACP Image Award nominations in 2001 and 2002 for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, recognizing his stellar television performances.
Even with his sitcom success, comedian John Henton remained grounded and connected to his stand-up roots. He participated in prestigious events like the Montreal International Comedy Festival – Just For Laughs in 2005, initially scheduled for one performance but extended due to audience demand. He also collaborated with his former “Living Single” co-star Kim Coles, creating a successful touring act that delighted audiences with their on-stage chemistry. Throughout his career, John Henton has remained a popular guest on numerous talk shows, including “Weekends at the DL,” “Best Damn Sports Show Period,” “The View,” “Late Night With Conan O’Brien,” and many others, demonstrating his enduring appeal and relevance in the entertainment world.
While Los Angeles became his professional home, John Henton never forgot his Cleveland origins. Family remains a priority, and he cherishes his time with his daughter, Nicole Simone Henton. In his leisure time, he enjoys honing his golf skills, finding balance and relaxation outside of his demanding career. From his early days in Cleveland comedy clubs to his sitcom stardom and continued stand-up performances, comedian John Henton’s journey is a testament to talent, hard work, and a genuine connection with his audience. He remains a beloved figure in comedy, celebrated for his humor, his memorable characters, and his enduring dedication to making people laugh.
