Martin Mull

Early Life and Education

Martin Eugene Mull was born on August 18, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, to Betty Mull, an actress and director, and Harold Mull, an acoustics engineer. At the age of two, his family relocated to North Ridgeville, Ohio, where they lived until he was 15. They then moved to New Canaan, Connecticut, where Mull graduated from high school. He pursued his passion for art at the Rhode Island School of Design, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1965 and a Master of Fine Arts in painting in 1967.

Career

Mull's career began in music, where he gained recognition as a songwriter with his hit "A Girl Named Johnny Cash" performed by Jane Morgan in 1970. He transitioned into a musical comedian, known for his satirical songs and unique stage presence, often featuring thrift store furniture as decor. Throughout the 1970s, he opened for notable artists like Randy Newman and Bruce Springsteen, and released his self-titled debut album in 1972, collaborating with musicians such as Levon Helm and Ramblin' Jack Elliott. In addition to music, Mull became a prominent actor, first gaining fame on the absurdist soap opera "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman" and later appearing in various television shows and films, including his memorable role as Colonel Mustard in the film "Clue."

Personal Life

Mull was married to singer Wendy Haas for 42 years until his passing, and they had a daughter, Maggie, who works as a co-executive producer for "Family Guy." He was known for his wit and humor, famously stating that "writing about music is like dancing about architecture." Mull passed away on June 27, 2024, at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of creativity in both music and acting.