Jan 6
'The Comeback' Season 3 to Pay Tribute to Late Actor Robert Michael Morris with Special Dedication
READ TIME: 3 MIN.
Robert Michael Morris, best known for his role as Mickey Deane in HBO's cult comedy "The Comeback", will be remembered in the show's upcoming third season. Creators Lisa Kudrow and Michael Patrick King have confirmed plans to dedicate the season to Morris, who portrayed the flamboyant and loyal gay hairdresser to Kudrow's character, Valerie Cherish. This tribute underscores the series' commitment to honoring its ensemble cast, particularly those from the LGBTQ+ community who infused the show with authentic humor and heart.
Morris joined "The Comeback" in its first season in 2005, playing Mickey as a sassy, supportive figure who often provided comic relief amid Valerie's desperate quest for relevance. His performance was tailored specifically for him by King, a former student, and Kudrow, capturing Mickey's unapologetic gay identity with wit and warmth that resonated with queer audiences. Mickey's storylines frequently highlighted LGBTQ+ experiences in entertainment, from navigating industry biases to celebrating personal milestones, making the character a fan favorite for his resilience and campy charm.
Born on May 6, 1940, in Kentucky, Morris pursued a diverse career in theater and education before breaking into television later in life. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and art from the University of Dayton and a Master of Fine Arts in playwriting from the Catholic University of America. After teaching high school and college theater, he relocated to New York City to gain professional acting experience, stating he wanted real-world knowledge to share with his students. This background enriched his portrayal of Mickey, blending theatrical flair with grounded empathy that affirmed diverse queer identities on screen.
Morris's death on May 30, 2017, at age 77, came after a battle with stage 4 melanoma, cutting short a career that included over 100 written plays and guest spots on shows like "Will & Grace", "How I Met Your Mother", and "2 Broke Girls". His final role was in "Better Things", which dedicated a Season 2 episode titled "Eulogy" to his memory. Tributes poured in from colleagues and fans, praising his comedic genius and mentorship. Lisa Kudrow shared a heartfelt remembrance, noting his "lovable" presence both on and off set.
"The Comeback" Season 3, set to premiere in March 2026 on HBO, picks up years after the Season 2 finale, with Valerie Cherish re-entering the spotlight via a reality show within the series. The tribute to Morris aligns with the show's history of inclusive narratives, where LGBTQ+ characters like Mickey were depicted as multifaceted—flawed yet fiercely loyal, mirroring real-life queer experiences in Hollywood. Executive producer Michael Patrick King emphasized Morris's integral role, saying the dedication ensures his spirit lives on in the ensemble dynamic.
For LGBTQ+ viewers, Mickey represented visibility at a time when gay characters on TV often served as punchlines; Morris elevated the role to showcase pride, friendship, and survival in a cutthroat industry. Queer media advocates have long praised "The Comeback" for its affirming portrayals, avoiding stereotypes while embracing camp. As Season 3 approaches amid HBO's 2026 slate announcements—including "Euphoria" Season 3 and "Lanterns"—this tribute highlights the network's evolving support for diverse talents.
Fans have expressed excitement on social media, with many sharing memories of Mickey's iconic lines and Morris's chemistry with Kudrow. Posts highlight how the character provided affirming representation for queer individuals, fostering inclusive discussions. Obituaries and fan comments reflect widespread admiration, with one noting Morris as a "generating force of never-ending comedy" from his theater days.
This dedication arrives as Hollywood reckons with losses in its comedy ranks, reinforcing "The Comeback"'s legacy of sharp, inclusive satire. Morris's influence extends beyond the screen, inspiring actors from LGBTQ+ backgrounds to pursue authentic storytelling. As the series returns, it promises to blend humor with homage, ensuring Mickey Deane—and Robert Michael Morris—remains a vibrant part of television history.
