Scott Thompson, better known by his stage name Carrot Top, was born on February 25, 1965, in Rockledge, Florida. He grew up in Cocoa, Florida, where he attended Cocoa High School and was an active member of the marching and concert band as a drummer. After graduating in 1983, Thompson enrolled at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. It was during his freshman year that he performed his first standup comedy routine, marking the beginning of his career in comedy[1][4].
The Origin of the Name
Thompson’s nickname “Carrot Top” was given to him by a local swimming coach, referencing his distinctive red hair, which would later become one of his trademarks[4].
Career Breakthrough and Rise to Fame
Carrot Top’s big break came in 1991 when he performed on the televised comedy showcase “Comic Strip Live” and also appeared on the TV show “Star Search”. This exposure helped launch his career, and by the 1990s, he was touring the country, playing to sold-out venues. His unique brand of prop comedy, which involves using a wide array of specially built props, became a hallmark of his performances[2][4].
Television and Film Appearances
Carrot Top has had a prolific career in both television and film. He has appeared in numerous TV shows, including “Larry the Cable Guy’s Christmas Spectacular”, “Gene Simmons Family Jewels”, “Space Ghost Coast to Coast”, “Criss Angel Mindfreak”, “Scrubs”, “George Lopez”, and “Reno 911!”. His film roles include “Chairman of the Board”, “Dennis the Menace Strikes Again”, and “The Hangover” (in an uncredited cameo). He has also been a guest judge on “Last Comic Standing” and has made appearances on reality shows like “The Bad Girls Club” and “Tosh.0″[1][4].
Las Vegas Residencies
One of the most notable aspects of Carrot Top’s career is his long-standing residency in Las Vegas. He has performed at the Luxor Hotel since 2011, a stint that follows his previous residencies at MGM and Bally’s. His show at the Luxor features his signature prop comedy, with dozens of props stored in large trunks on stage, and he has been hailed as “Comedian of the Year” by the hotel[1][5].
Other Ventures and Parodies
In addition to his live performances, Carrot Top has been the continuity announcer for Cartoon Network from 1995 to 1999 and produced and starred in the early morning show “Carrot Top’s AM Mayhem” from 1994 to 1996. He has also appeared on various nighttime talk shows, including “The Jay Leno Show” and “Red Eye w/Greg Gutfeld”. Carrot Top has been frequently parodied in shows like “Mr. Show”, “King of the Hill”, “Family Guy”, “South Park”, and “MADtv”[1][4].
Net Worth and Legacy
Carrot Top’s nearly 40-year career has earned him a significant net worth of $75 million, making him one of the wealthiest working comedians. His success is a testament to his unique comedic style and his ability to adapt and thrive in the entertainment industry[2].
Key Facts About Carrot Top
Birth Name and Date: Scott Thompson, born February 25, 1965.
Early Life: Grew up in Cocoa, Florida; attended Cocoa High School and Florida Atlantic University.
Career Start: First standup comedy routine as a freshman at Florida Atlantic University.
Breakthrough: Appeared on “Comic Strip Live” and “Star Search” in 1991.
Prop Comedy: Known for his extensive use of specially built props in his performances.
Television and Film: Appeared in numerous TV shows and films, including “Scrubs”, “Reno 911!”, and “Chairman of the Board”.
Las Vegas Residencies: Performed at Luxor Hotel since 2011, with previous residencies at MGM and Bally’s.
Net Worth: Estimated at $75 million.
Awards and Recognition: Named “Comedian of the Year” and “Performer of the Year”.
Parodies: Frequently parodied in various TV shows and comedies.
Other Ventures: Continuity announcer for Cartoon Network and producer/star of “Carrot Top’s AM Mayhem”.[1][2][4]
