Charles Barnett (September 23, 1954 – March 16, 1996) was an American comedian and actor.

He first made a name for himself in the late 1970s and early 1980s, performing several shows of raunchy comedy a day at outdoor parks in New York City, most notably in Washington Square Park.

In September 1980, Barnett auditioned for Saturday Night Live.

[2][3] Barnett was reportedly envious and resentful of Murphy for several years, although in 1983 he told Jet Magazine: "Now that I'm making it, I watch Saturday Night Live every Saturday.

"[4] Barnett contracted HIV as a result of heroin abuse and died from AIDS on March 16, 1996.