Paul Andrew Richter, born on October 28, 1966, is an American actor, comedian, writer, and talk show announcer who has carved a distinctive niche in the entertainment industry, most famously as the loyal sidekick to Conan O'Brien. For over three decades, Richter has been a familiar and beloved presence on late-night television, first serving as O'Brien's announcer and comedic foil on Late Night and The Tonight Show on NBC, and later on Conan on TBS. His quick wit, self-deprecating humor, and undeniable chemistry with O'Brien made him an integral part of the shows' success, earning him a dedicated fan base and solidifying his status as one of the most recognizable sidekicks in television history.

Richter's journey into comedy began in his hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he developed a passion for performance and writing. He later moved to Chicago, a hotbed for improvisational comedy, where he studied at the Second City and the ImprovOlympic. It was in this vibrant comedy scene that he met Conan O'Brien, and the two quickly formed a creative partnership. When O'Brien was tapped to host Late Night in 1993, he brought Richter along as his announcer and sidekick, a role that would define much of Richter's early career. Beyond his on-air duties, Richter contributed as a writer for the show, helping to craft the surreal and intelligent humor that became its hallmark.

While his work with O'Brien remains his most prominent credit, Richter has also demonstrated considerable range as a performer. He starred in the short-lived but critically adored Fox sitcom Andy Richter Controls the Universe, which showcased his talent for leading a comedy series. He also appeared in other television projects, including a recurring role on Arrested Development and a guest spot on The Simpsons. On the big screen, Richter lent his distinctive voice to the character of Mort, the diminutive and energetic lemur, in the massively successful Madagascar film franchise, a role that introduced him to a new generation of fans. He also voiced the character Ben Higgenbottom in the Nickelodeon animated series The Mighty B!, created by Amy Poehler.

In recent years, Richter has expanded his creative output into the podcasting world. Since June 2019, he has hosted his own show, The Three Questions with Andy Richter, on the Earwolf network, where he engages in thoughtful and often humorous conversations with a variety of guests. Through his enduring partnership with Conan O'Brien, his memorable voice work, and his ventures into podcasting, Andy Richter has proven to be a versatile and enduring figure in comedy, consistently bringing his unique brand of intelligence and warmth to every project he undertakes.