Mike Snider

One of contemporary country comedy's most popular figures, Mike Snider was immediately recognizable for his signature banjo skills, distinctive Southern drawl, and myriad comic tales of his wife Sabrina, aka "Sweetie." Born in Gleason, TN, in 1961, he received his first banjo at the age of 16, and soon won a number of talent contests; at the age of 22 he even took home top honors at the National Banjo Championship. After debuting at the Grand Ole Opry, Snider appeared on TNN's Nashville Now, where his unmistakable Tennessee accent prompted gales of laughter from the audience; he soon began pursuing comedy full-time, and was a cast member on Hee Haw for seven seasons. After earning his Opry membership in 1990, he began starring in Opryland's The Mike Snider Show a year later; he also recorded a number of albums. ~ Mark Donkers