Paul Andrew Richter initiated his professional trajectory in the Chicago comedy scene before gaining recognition as a prominent television sidekick. His career spans decades of contributions as an actor, writer, and announcer, most notably through his long-term partnership with Conan O'Brien. He has balanced this collaborative work with film roles, voice acting, and various television projects across multiple networks.
Early Development and Chicago Foundations
Born in 1966 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Richter was raised in Yorkville, Illinois. He attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Columbia College Chicago, where he majored in film. His initial exposure to comedic performance occurred at Chicago's Improv Olympic and the Annoyance Theatre. He secured a role in the stage production of The Real Live Brady Bunch, which eventually transferred to New York City.
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Richter was hired as a writer for Late Night with Conan O'Brien in 1993, eventually serving as the program's sidekick. He departed the show in 2000 to pursue individual acting projects, including the television series Andy Richter Controls the Universe and Andy Barker P.I. In 2009, he rejoined O'Brien for The Tonight Show on NBC and subsequently moved to the TBS program Conan in 2010, where he functioned as a writer, announcer, and participant in comedy sketches.
Voice Acting and Game Show Appearances
Beyond his talk show commitments, Richter has established a presence in voice acting, providing the voice for Mort in the Madagascar film franchise and Ben Higgenbottom in The Mighty B!. He has engaged in various game show roles, including hosting duties for Big Fan and appearances on Celebrity Jeopardy!. In 2009, he set a record for the highest one-day score on Celebrity Jeopardy!, winning $68,000 for charity.
Current Projects
Richter continues his career through various media channels. Since June 2019, he has served as the host of the podcast The Three Questions with Andy Richter on the Earwolf network. He maintains his professional affiliation through the Writers Guild of America, East. In 2025, he played a supporting role in the supernatural horror film Obsession.
Fast facts
- Born: 1966, Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Education: Columbia College Chicago
- Notable Role: Sidekick for Conan O'Brien
- Voice Work: Mort in Madagascar franchise
- Game Show Achievement: $68,000 win on Celebrity Jeopardy!
- Podcast: The Three Questions with Andy Richter
- Film credit: Obsession (2025)
- Membership: Writers Guild of America, East
Questions readers ask
What is Andy Richter best known for?
He is best known for his role as the sidekick to Conan O'Brien on the talk shows Late Night, The Tonight Show, and Conan.
Has Richter hosted any television programs?
Yes, he hosted the game show Big Fan and various comedy specials, including the Team Coco Presents the Conan Writers Live special.
Achievements
- Educated at Columbia College Chicago, iO Theater and Yorkville High School
- Worked as voice actor, television actor and screenwriter
