Kim Coles is best known for infusing her roles with a quirky, upbeat energy that brings zany characters to life. Her journey in show business began when she was crowned first runner-up in the Big Beautiful Woman beauty pageant held in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Following a successful stint as a “large-size” model, Coles felt the urge to add a bit more glamour to her persona, which led her to lose some weight and refine her image.
As she transitioned into club performances, her comedic talent began to shine, eventually landing her a gig as a warm-up comic for NBC’s “The Cosby Show.” That opportunity opened several doors, and Coles soon found herself appearing on shows like “Yo! MTV Laffs” and “Star Search.” She also served as an opening act for a variety of musical acts, including Luther Vandross, Bobby Brown, and The O’Jays, as well as comedian Sinbad.
Coles became a key player in the groundbreaking Fox comedy series “In Living Color,” where she showcased her versatility as part of the original ensemble cast. She later took on the role of Synclaire James, a sweetly naive character who was one of the central housemates in the hit sitcom “Living Single” (Fox, 1993–97). The show, which followed the lives and romantic pursuits of young, urban professionals—often referred to as “buppies”—cemented Kim Coles’ place in television history with her distinct comedic flair.
When it comes to Kim Coles’s filmography, one standout in terms of popularity and reception is Kids in America from 2005. This particular movie tends to be the most appreciated among audiences. On the flip side, one of the least favored entries in Kim Coles’s career is Strictly Business, which came out back in 1991. While Kim Coles has been part of various projects over the years, these two films—Kids in America and Strictly Business—represent the high and low points in terms of public reception.