It would be impossible to discuss the mid-aughts without mentioning the many top-tier Disney Channel shows that dominated pop culture. Shortly after That’s So Raven and a bit before Hannah Montana, The Suite Life of Zack & Cody introduced young audiences to the lavish (and chaotic) idea of life in a five-star hotel. Phill Lewis’ Mr. Moseby was arguably the heart of the show, and his career behind the cameras is just as wholesome as it was in his Suite Life years!
Before he became the Tipton’s best-dressed manager, Lewis was already on his way to make it big in the entertainment industry. Born in 1968, he was already working on TV shows like Hill Street Blues and 227 by 1986. Then, in 1988, Lewis played a minor role as Dennis in the classic dark comedy Heathers, sending him on his way to Hollywood.
Just as his career was gaining momentum, things came to a screeching halt for Lewis. Following a tragic traffic accident in 1991, he was convicted of manslaughter and driving under the influence. Working in a prison-based theater company gave Lewis a renewed focus. A few years later, he was back in action, with a more grounded path in life.
Lewis had a knack for comedy, and everyone noticed it. He worked with the Wayans brothers on their show, The Wayans Bros., appearing in twenty episodes. He also headlined the short-lived comedies Teech and Hardball. However, his most iconic role came a decade later, when he joined the cast of Disney’s The Suite Life of Zack & Cody.
For many Disney Channel fans, Marion Moseby is an institution. He quickly became one of the most beloved characters in The Suite Life, but he would not stop there. Moseby was then seen in other Disney Channel shows—That’s So Raven, The Wizards of Waverly Place, Hannah Montana, and even 2015’s Jessie: each of them featured at least one episode with the charismatic Mr. Moseby.
Though many still remember him for the legendary Mr. Moseby, Lewis is a consummate film lover who’s comfortable in front and behind the cameras. During his time at Disney, Lewis began delving into directing roles. His most notorious works include episodes of Mike & Molly, 2 Broke Girls, Netflix’s One Day at a Time, and a dozen episodes of the iCarly reboot.
Today, Phill Lewis appears more grounded than ever. The real-life Mr. Moseby balances his directing (and voice acting) schedule with his role as a devoted father to two daughters.
Though Lewis’ father, Delano Lewis, was the U.S. Ambassador to South Africa at the turn of the millennium, Phill followed his own career path, one that led him to achieve an ambassadorship of comedy that left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who grew up in the early 2000s.
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