Harry Connick

Harry Connick, Jr.'s career exemplifies excellence across multiple platforms in the entertainment world. He has received Grammy awards, Emmy awards, and Tony nominations for his live and recorded musical performances, his achievements in film and elevision, and his appearances on Broadway as both an actor and a composer.

The foundation of Connick's art is the music of his native New Orleans, where he began performing as a pianist and vocalist at the age of five. He rose to international prominence in 1989 after recording the soundtrack for the hit comedy When Harry Met Sally, a multi-platinum success and the prelude to a prolific music career that has included several multi-platinum album releases, showcasing his versatility as a vocalist, pianist, composer, and arranger.

Beyond his celebrated achievements in music, Connick has built a wide-ranging career in film, Broadway, and television. He has appeared in twenty-one films, starring alongside acclaimed actors Sandra Bullock, Hilary Swank, Morgan Freeman, Ashley Judd, and Sigourney Weaver in projects spanning romance, drama, thriller, and action. He earned Tony nominations for his performance in The Pajama Game and as a composer and lyricist for Thou Shalt Not. On television, he had a recurring role on Will & Grace, served as a judge on American Idol, and hosted an Emmy-nominated daytime talk show, Harry, further cementing his reputation as a multifaceted entertainer.

Despite his busy career, Connick is also known for his philanthropy and has done some of his most important work in his efforts to help New Orleans after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. He, along with friend Branford Marsalis, conceived of "Musicians' Village", and its centerpiece, the Ellis Marsalis Center for Music.

Connick's many honors--including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, induction into the Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame, honorary doctorates from Tulane and Loyola Universities, and the Jefferson Award for Public Service--have not slowed his creative drive. Instead, they reinforce his commitment to using his talents to help others and promote public service.