Challenges Faced by Tracy Morgan: Obstacles and Turning Points

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Tracy Morgan's life and career.

Tracy Morgan is a prominent American stand-up comedian and actor, best known for his roles on television. He gained fame as a cast member on Saturday Night Live (1996-2003) and further solidified his career playing Tracy Jordan on the sitcom 30 Rock (2006-2013), earning Emmy nominations for both. More recently, he starred in the TBS comedy series The Last O.G., showcasing his continued presence in the entertainment industry.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles

1985: Father's HIV Diagnosis

In 1985, at the age of 17, Tracy Morgan learned that his father had contracted HIV from hypodermic needle use.

January 1987: Father's Death

In January 1987, Tracy Morgan's father died at the age of 38.

1996: Diagnosis with Diabetes

In 1996, Tracy Morgan was diagnosed with diabetes mellitus and has been an alcoholic for years.

2009: Reflection on Friend's Murder

In 2009, Tracy Morgan reflected on the murder of his best friend and how it motivated him to pursue comedy.

December 2010: Kidney Transplant

In early December 2010, Tracy Morgan received a kidney transplant due to complications from diabetes and alcohol use.

2012: Mother's Financial Troubles

In 2012, Tracy Morgan's mother, Alicia Warden, faced potential foreclosure on her home, leading to a public dispute over financial assistance.

June 7, 2014: Involved in Serious Car Crash

On June 7, 2014, Tracy Morgan was a passenger in a minibus involved in a six-vehicle crash in New Jersey, resulting in severe injuries and the death of his friend and collaborator, James McNair.

June 20, 2014: Released from Hospital, Transferred to Rehab

On June 20, 2014, Tracy Morgan was released from the hospital after being treated for injuries sustained in the car crash and was transferred to a rehabilitation facility.

July 10, 2014: Sues Walmart for Negligence

On July 10, 2014, Tracy Morgan sued Walmart for negligence regarding the car crash, alleging that the truck driver had not slept for over 24 hours.

July 12, 2014: Released from Rehab Center

On July 12, 2014, Tracy Morgan was released from the rehab center, continuing his recovery from the injuries sustained during the car crash.

September 2014: Walmart Blames Victims in Court Papers

In September 2014, Walmart cast partial blame on Tracy Morgan and the other victims of the car crash for not wearing seat belts, which was refuted by Morgan and his counsel.

October 2014: Undergoing Rehab and Using Wheelchair

By October 2014, Tracy Morgan was still undergoing rehab and required a wheelchair for mobility beyond "some steps" following the car crash.

2014: Denied Visit by Mother in Hospital

In 2014, Tracy Morgan's mother was reportedly initially turned away from visiting him in the hospital after his traffic accident.

May 27, 2015: Settlement with Walmart

On May 27, 2015, Tracy Morgan settled the lawsuit against Walmart for a multi-million-dollar amount, estimated to be approximately $90 million.

June 2019: Minor collision and verbal altercation

In June 2019, Tracy Morgan was involved in a minor collision while driving his new Bugatti Veyron. Following the incident, he was recorded yelling at the other driver.