Torry was born and raised along with his brother, actor and comedian Guy Torry, in St. Louis, Missouri. He attended Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri, where he earned a B.A. in mass communications/broadcast journalism. While attending school, Torry pledged Omega Psi Phi fraternity. In 2001, Lincoln honored him with both The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award and in 2002 an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Humane Letters. He was also inducted into the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame in 2001 where many other famous African-American college alumni have been inducted as well.

Torry began his acting career around the age of 23. He brought his own style of humor to such roles in films such as, Strictly Business and House Party . He also made guest appearances on television shows including E.R., NYPD Blue, Girlfriends, NCIS, The Conan O’Brian Show, Jon Stewart, The Bryon Allen Show and became a crowd favorite on Def Comedy Jam. Appearing on earlier shows such as Roc and Amen jump started his television roles. It wasn’t until 1992 when Torry would receive his big break, he was given the job of hosting Def Comedy Jam after Martin Lawrence left the show. Which tripled his exposure in the entertainment industry. This also brought Torry larger roles in newer movies. He starred in Motives 1 & 2, Lock Down, Hair Show, Mansfield 12, Poetic Justice, Sprung, and Tales from the Hood among others. He has also been in various commercials for large corporations such as Anheuser Busch, Pepsi, and Nike.