Where Are They Now? The Shocking 2024 Updates On 7 Iconic Actors From MADtv
The legacy of *MADtv* is cemented not just in its memorable characters like Miss Swan, Vancome Lady, and Stuart, but in the sheer versatility of its ensemble cast. Unlike *SNL*, the Fox series often allowed its performers to stay for longer runs, enabling them to truly develop their comedic personas. From Oscar-nominated writers to prolific voice actors, here is the latest on where the show’s most beloved stars are now.
The A-List Alumni: Current Projects and Controversies (2024 Edition)
The *MADtv* cast members have followed incredibly diverse career paths. Some have become household names on Emmy-winning dramas, while others have built an empire in the world of animation. This section focuses on the biggest names and their most recent, topical updates.
1. Alex Borstein: The Emmy-Winning Powerhouse
Biography & Profile:
- Full Name: Alexandrea Borstein
- MADtv Tenure: 1997–2009 (Repertory Player, Writer, Consulting Producer)
- Most Famous MADtv Characters: Ms. Swan, Bunny Swan, Cordo the GAP Troll, Dot Goddard
- Key Post-MADtv Roles: Lois Griffin in *Family Guy* (Voice), Susie Myerson in *The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel*, Dawn in *Getting On*
- Awards: Three-time Emmy Winner (two for *Mrs. Maisel*, one for *Family Guy*)
Alex Borstein is arguably the most critically successful *MADtv* alum, having transitioned her sketch comedy chops into a powerhouse dramatic and comedic career. Her portrayal of the tough, fast-talking manager Susie Myerson in Amazon’s *The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel* earned her two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.
2024 Updates:
Even after the final season of *The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel* aired in 2023, Borstein’s success continued into 2024. She was nominated for a 2024 Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Award for her work as Susie Myerson. Furthermore, in a nod to her New York roots and career success, the Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment presented her with a 2024 "Made in NY" Award. Beyond acting, Borstein is a touring comedian and musician, bringing her one-woman solo show, Thirsty, to theaters across the US and Europe throughout 2024 and into 2025.
2. Orlando Jones: From Sketch Comedy to Legal Headlines
Biography & Profile:
- Full Name: Orlando Jones
- MADtv Tenure: 1995–1997 (Original Cast Member)
- Most Famous MADtv Characters: James Brown, The Cab Driver, numerous commercial parodies
- Key Post-MADtv Roles: The 7 Up Guy (Commercial Spokesperson), Mr. Nancy in *American Gods*, Captain Frank Irving in *Sleepy Hollow*
- Net Worth (2024 Estimate): $5 million
Orlando Jones was a foundational member of the original *MADtv* cast, known for his charismatic presence and spot-on impressions. After leaving the show, he became widely recognized as the spokesperson for 7 Up and built a solid career in film and television, most notably as the fan-favorite character Mr. Nancy in the Starz series *American Gods*.
2024 Updates:
Jones has been in the news for high-profile legal issues in late 2024. After a four-month search, he surrendered to police in October 2024 on charges of sexual assault of a minor. He was subsequently granted bail and is awaiting a January court date. Separately, he remains active in the fan convention circuit, having participated in a panel at Awesome Con 2024 to discuss his roles and career experiences.
3. Phil LaMarr: The Unstoppable Voice Acting Legend
Biography & Profile:
- Full Name: Phillip "Phil" LaMarr
- MADtv Tenure: 1995–1999 (Original Cast Member)
- Most Famous MADtv Characters: Antoine Merriweather, numerous impressions (e.g., Louis Farrakhan, Bill Cosby)
- Key Post-MADtv Roles: Hermes Conrad in *Futurama*, Jack in *Samurai Jack*, John Stewart/Green Lantern in *Justice League*, Marvin in *Pulp Fiction* (Live-Action)
Phil LaMarr’s time on *MADtv* showcased his incredible range, but his true legacy lies in the world of animation. He has one of the most extensive voice acting résumés in the industry, making him a cornerstone of modern animated television and video games.
2024 Updates:
LaMarr’s voice work remains consistently in demand. In 2024, he voiced the character Mendor in the Netflix animated series *Masters of the Universe: Revolution*, a continuation of his vast portfolio of roles in major franchises. His career is a masterclass in topical authority, blending live-action comedy roots with an unparalleled presence in voice-over, including his continuous role as Hermes Conrad in the revived *Futurama* series.
The Versatile Comedians: From Sitcoms to Stand-Up
Many other *MADtv* players leveraged their sketch experience into successful careers in other comedy formats, proving the show was a powerful launchpad for versatile comedic talent.
4. Nicole Sullivan: The Sitcom and Animation Staple
Biography & Profile:
- Full Name: Nicole Julianne Sullivan
- MADtv Tenure: 1995–2001 (Original Cast Member)
- Most Famous MADtv Characters: The Vancome Lady, Lida, Amy the X-News Reporter
- Key Post-MADtv Roles: Holly Shumpert in *The King of Queens*, voice of Shego in *Kim Possible*, voice of Mary in *Clone High*
Nicole Sullivan was one of the longest-running and most popular original cast members, famous for her mean-spirited Vancome Lady character. After her six seasons, she successfully moved into network television, most notably with a five-season run on the hit CBS sitcom *The King of Queens* as Holly Shumpert.
2024 Updates:
Sullivan continues her prolific career as a voice actress and television guest star. Her voice work includes roles in the animated series *DC Harley Quinn* and the revival of the cult-classic animated show *Clone High*, where she reprises her role as Mary. Her consistent work across animation and live-action demonstrates her enduring versatility in the industry.
5. Debra Wilson: The Queen of Impressions and Voice-Overs
Biography & Profile:
- Full Name: Debra Renee Wilson
- MADtv Tenure: 1995–2003 (Original Cast Member)
- Most Famous MADtv Characters: Oprah Winfrey, Whitney Houston, numerous impressions and original characters
- Key Post-MADtv Roles: Voice of Daisy Duck in *Mickey Mouse Funhouse*, roles in *Family Guy*, *Clone High*, and numerous video games (e.g., *Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order*)
Debra Wilson was a cornerstone of *MADtv*, holding the record for the longest-serving original cast member and known for her high-energy impressions, particularly her iconic take on Oprah Winfrey.
2024 Updates:
Wilson’s career has fully transitioned into a high-demand voice actress, providing voices for countless animated projects and video games. Her recent, notable work includes taking over the role of Daisy Duck in the Disney Junior series *Mickey Mouse Funhouse* in 2022. She also voiced Amanda Waller in the animated series *My Adventures With Superman*, cementing her status as a dynamic and versatile performer across various media.
6. Aries Spears: The Stand-Up Veteran
Biography & Profile:
- Full Name: Nairobi Aries Spears
- MADtv Tenure: 1997–2005
- Most Famous MADtv Characters: Death Row Records Security Guard, numerous celebrity impressions (e.g., Shaquille O’Neal, James Brown)
- Key Post-MADtv Roles: Stand-up comedy specials, film roles (e.g., *Jerry Maguire*)
Aries Spears was a staple of *MADtv* for eight seasons, known for his bold, physical comedy and razor-sharp impressions. Unlike many of his peers, Spears has primarily focused on his first love: stand-up comedy.
2024 Updates:
In 2024, Aries Spears continues to be a touring stand-up comedian, performing across the US and Canada. His material is known for being raw, uncensored, and often politically charged, as highlighted in a 2024 interview where he discussed the current election cycle and Latin culture. His continued presence on the stand-up circuit demonstrates a commitment to the live comedy stage, a departure from the Hollywood paths of some of his co-stars.
The Enduring Legacy of MADtv
The success of the *MADtv* alumni underscores the show's importance as a breeding ground for talent. While it often lived in the shadow of *SNL*, its unique comedic voice—darker, more physical, and less politically constrained—created stars who have found success in every corner of the entertainment industry.
From Alex Borstein's critical acclaim and Nicole Sullivan's consistent TV work to Phil LaMarr's animation dominance and the ongoing, complex careers of Orlando Jones and Aries Spears, the actors from *MADtv* continue to shape the comedy and entertainment world in 2024 and beyond. Their collective work on screen, behind the microphone, and on the stand-up stage solidifies *MADtv*'s enduring topical authority in the history of sketch comedy television.
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