“It’s great seeing another Bridgeport native making a name for himself in his career of choice. We’re proud of Germar and his accomplishments, and look forward to seeing many more in the future. It’s a great day for the state’s largest city and I’m honored to give his this award tonight.” – Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch
Bridgeport, Conn. (March 3, 2015) –Netflix hit series, ‘Orange is the New Black’ star Germar Terrell Gardner was honored last night by Bridgeport, Conn. Mayor Bill Finch and City Council Members.
Mr. Gardner is a Bridgeport, Conn. native and current resident. He joined the Emmy Award winning show in 2014, which was the start of Season 2.
“It’s great seeing another Bridgeport native making a name for himself in his career of choice. We’re proud of Germar and his accomplishments, and look forward to seeing many more in the future. It’s a great day for the state’s largest city and I’m honored to give his this award tonight,” said Mayor Finch, who proclaimed March 2nd as Germar Terrell Gardner Day in the City of Bridgeport.
For photos of last night’s presentation click here: http://bit.ly/1wHi3im.
Mr. Gardner, who plays C.O. Charles Ford, joined the show last year in what was supposed to be a single appearance. But the producers liked what they saw and brought him on as a recurring character.
Born and raised in Bridgeport, Mr. Gardner was introduced to the arts early by his father, who recited poems from Langston Hughes and the writings of W.E.B. DuBois to his children.
At first Gardner thought football would be his ticket to stardom. But then a high school class in creative writing at Bridgeport’s Central High School changed his mind.
Gardner went on to graduate from college with a double major in print journalism and television production. After working part-time for Aquarion Water Company – where his mother was and still is employed – he landed a job with New Haven’s ABC affiliate, WTNH News Channel 8.
City Council President Tom McCarthy and members of the City Council leadership presented the Bridgeport native with a City Council Citation.