Ferguson’s first visit to the United States occurred in 1975 when he traveled to Long Island to visit his uncle. However, he permanently relocated to the U.S. in 1983, eventually working in construction in Harlem, New York.

Musical and Early Performance Career

Before establishing a career in comedy and television, Ferguson explored music. He formed a UK rock band called Exposure and later joined a punk band named The Bastards from Hell, which was later renamed Dreamboys. The band performed in the Glasgow music scene between 1980 and 1982, with Peter Capaldi (of future Doctor Who fame) as the lead vocalist. It was Capaldi who encouraged Ferguson to explore comedy.

Ferguson's comedic breakthrough came with the character “Bing Hitler,” a satirical send-up of overly patriotic Scottish folk singers. This act gained popularity at the 1986 Edinburgh Festival and was later distributed as a recorded performance. During this phase, Ferguson also supported himself financially by bartending, and met Michael Boyd, artistic director of the Tron Theatre, who further motivated him to pursue acting.

The Transition to Screen and Notable Roles

Following his early comedy successes, Ferguson took on various television and film roles in the UK and beyond. His hosting and acting work was featured on networks including the BBC and ABC. His big break in the United States came with his role as Nigel Wick, Drew Carey's boss on the long-running sitcom The Drew Carey Show.

Ferguson became a household name as the host of The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, a position he held from 2005 to 2014. Known for his candid and often self-deprecating humor, Ferguson rejected the traditional talk show format in favor of a more spontaneous and personal approach. Though he did not consider himself a traditional journalist or award-winning host, his engaging and honest interview style was widely appreciated.