Steve Martin
Biography of Steve Martin
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: Stephen Glenn Martin
Common Aliases: Steve Martin
Birth and Death Dates
Birth Date: August 14, 1945
Death Date: N/A
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American
Professions: Comedian, Actor, Writer, Musician, Producer
Early Life and Background
Steve Martin was born on August 14, 1945, in Waco, Texas, but he grew up in Inglewood and later Garden Grove, California. His father, Glenn Vernon Martin, was a real estate salesman and an aspiring actor, while his mother, Mary Lee, was a homemaker. From a young age, Martin was exposed to the world of entertainment, which sparked his interest in performing. As a teenager, he worked at Disneyland, where he honed his skills in magic and comedy, performing tricks and selling guidebooks. This early exposure to show business laid the foundation for his future career in entertainment.
Martin attended Garden Grove High School and later enrolled at Santa Ana College, where he studied drama and English poetry. He transferred to UCLA, majoring in theater, but left before completing his degree to pursue a career in comedy. His early life was marked by a relentless pursuit of creativity and a desire to entertain, which would become the hallmark of his illustrious career.
Major Accomplishments
Steve Martin's career is a tapestry of diverse accomplishments across various fields of entertainment. He first gained national attention as a writer for "The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour," for which he won an Emmy Award in 1969. His stand-up comedy career took off in the 1970s, characterized by his unique blend of absurdist humor and physical comedy. Martin's comedy albums, such as "Let's Get Small" and "A Wild and Crazy Guy," achieved platinum status and earned him Grammy Awards.
Transitioning from stand-up to film, Martin became a household name with his roles in movies like "The Jerk" (1979), "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" (1987), and "Father of the Bride" (1991). His versatility as an actor was evident in both comedic and dramatic roles, earning him critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.
In addition to his work in comedy and film, Martin is an accomplished musician. He is a skilled banjo player and has released several bluegrass albums, winning Grammy Awards for his musical contributions. His passion for music is evident in his performances and collaborations with other artists.
Notable Works or Actions
Steve Martin's body of work is extensive and varied, reflecting his multifaceted talents. His early stand-up routines, characterized by their surreal and offbeat humor, set him apart from his contemporaries and established him as a leading figure in comedy. Films like "Roxanne" (1987) and "L.A. Story" (1991) showcased his ability to blend humor with heartfelt storytelling.
As a writer, Martin has authored several books, including the memoir "Born Standing Up," which provides an insightful look into his life and career. His novels, such as "Shopgirl" and "An Object of Beauty," have been well-received, further cementing his reputation as a talented storyteller.
Martin's contributions to the arts extend beyond performance. He has been a dedicated advocate for the preservation of art and culture, often using his platform to support various causes and initiatives.
Impact and Legacy
Steve Martin's impact on the world of entertainment is profound and enduring. His innovative approach to comedy has influenced countless comedians and performers, while his films continue to entertain audiences worldwide. Martin's ability to seamlessly transition between different forms of media—be it stand-up, film, music, or literature—demonstrates his versatility and creative genius.
His legacy is not only defined by his professional achievements but also by his contributions to the cultural landscape. Martin's work has transcended generations, appealing to both young and old, and his influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary artists.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Steve Martin is widely quoted and remembered for his sharp wit, insightful observations, and unique comedic style. His quotes often reflect his keen understanding of human nature and the absurdities of life, resonating with audiences across different backgrounds. Martin's ability to articulate complex ideas with humor and clarity has made his words memorable and impactful.
Whether through his stand-up routines, films, or written works, Martin's voice remains a significant presence in popular culture. His contributions to comedy and the arts have left an indelible mark, ensuring that he will be remembered and quoted for generations to come.
Quotes by Steve Martin
Steve Martin's insights on:
I used to smoke marijuana. But I'll tell you something: I would only smoke it in the late evening. Oh, occasionally the early evening, but usually the late evening. Or the mid-evening. Just the early evening, mid-evening and late evening. Occasionally, early afternoon, early mid afternoon, or perhaps the late mid afternoon. Oh, sometimes the early mid late early morning but never at dusk! Never at dusk. I would never do that.
There is one thing I would break up over and that is if she caught me with another woman. I wouldn't stand for that.
What your problem is, it's that you haven't seen enough movies. All of life's riddles are answered in the movies.
I've run into people in my life who were so dramatic; people who are so extreme and so frustrating to be around that you end up thinking about them and talking about them for literally years after your experience with them is over. I've had that happen to me, and I've seen it happen to other people. I find it fascinating.
In a sense, this book is not an autobiography but a biography, because I am writing about someone I used to know. Yes, these events are true, yet sometimes they seemed to have happened to someone else, and I often felt like a curious onlooker or someone trying to remember a dream. I ignored my stand-up career for twenty-five years, but now, having finished this memoir, I view this time with surprising warmth. One can have, it turns out, an affection for the war years.