She’s a talented actress, comedian, and writer who’s made a name for herself with standout roles and sharp writing across both television and comedy. You might recognize her best as Principal Ava Coleman in the popular ABC sitcom Abbott Elementary—a role that really put her on the map. But even before that, she was making waves in the industry. She brought the character of Joyce to life and contributed her writing skills to the Showtime comedy series Black Monday, showcasing her versatility both in front of and behind the camera.
In addition to those major gigs, she’s had memorable appearances in several well-known TV shows, including Crashing, Corporate, and Central Park, where she didn’t just act but also lent her voice and writing talent. Her journey in entertainment started earlier than most realize—her first screen role actually came back in 2013 with a spot on the television series Money Talks. It’s been quite the path from there to now.
And while her career continues to soar, she also balances life as a mom. She has two sons, and though she keeps much of her personal life private, it’s clear that family plays an important role for her. From her early days in front of the camera to becoming a central figure in today’s comedy scene, her story is one of persistence, humor, and undeniable talent.
She made a big splash with her debut comedy album, Black and Mild, which dropped in 2017 and quickly put her on the map. Around that time, she also started gaining attention for hosting two popular podcasts—Strong Black Laughs and You In Danger, Gurl—where her sharp wit and relatable humor really shined. Her rising star didn’t go unnoticed; in 2020, she was honored as one of Variety’s 10 Comics to Watch, a major milestone in her career. On top of her comedy success, she expanded into acting, landing roles in projects like Life & Beth and the 2020 film Tom of Your Life. She’s definitely someone who keeps pushing boundaries and making her mark across different platforms.