Mo Gaffney has always stood out as a dynamic, dark-haired talent in the world of comedy and acting—someone who effortlessly blends sharp wit with heartfelt storytelling. Over the years, Mo has built a diverse career across film, television, and stage, often using her voice and presence to champion feminist themes through character-driven humor. A San Diego native, Mo began her journey in local performance scenes, where she crossed paths with fellow comedian Kathy Najimy—an encounter that would shape much of her professional life. The two quickly discovered a shared comedic rhythm, leading to the creation of The Kathy and Mo Show, a groundbreaking series of sketches that balanced laughter with emotional depth. This collaboration earned them critical acclaim, including an OBIE award during its Off-Broadway run from 1988 to 1989.
Mo’s early film role as Ed Harris’ wife in State of Grace (1990) showcased her dramatic range in a gritty crime drama, proving she could hold her own in intense narratives. But Mo wasn’t confined to one genre. She embraced the absurd and hilarious, appearing in offbeat projects like MTV’s Jailbait (2000), demonstrating time and again her versatility. In 1991, Mo brought her signature style to HBO with The Kathy & Mo Show: Parallel Lives, marking their official TV debut and introducing their unique brand of humor to a wider audience. That same year, Mo expanded her film repertoire with a role in Norman Jewison’s Other People’s Money, further establishing herself as a thoughtful and capable actress.
In 1992, Mo stepped into the host’s chair for Comedy Central’s Women Aloud, bringing feminist voices to the forefront in a daily talk format. Not long after, she launched The Mo Show—a syndicated talk series that aired on Fox-owned stations. Though short-lived, it was another platform for Mo to shine on her own terms. Meanwhile, British audiences delighted in her work on cult favorites like The Full Wax and Absolutely Fabulous, both of which later found American audiences through A&E and Comedy Central. Mo’s portrayal of Bo—the brash, unapologetically American ex-wife of Edina’s husband—became a fan favorite, blending satire with unforgettable flair.
Back in the U.S., fans were treated to Kathy and Mo: The Dark Side on HBO in 1995, a special that continued their legacy of smart, socially aware comedy. Mo returned to Roseanne in 1996 for a Halloween episode, reprising her role as Bo and delighting crossover fans. That year also saw her reuniting with director Norman Jewison for the film Bogus. When Absolutely Fabulous: The Last Shout aired on Comedy Central in 1997 as a farewell celebration, Mo once again lent her talents to the occasion, closing out the series with the same memorable condescension and comedic precision that defined her character. Throughout it all, Mo Gaffney remained a distinctive voice—unafraid to be bold, funny, and fiercely authentic.
So, when it comes to Mo Gaffney’s filmography, one standout definitely shines brighter than the rest—her highest rated movie is Happy, Texas from 1999. It really seems to resonate with audiences and critics alike, showcasing Mo Gaffney’s talent in a memorable way. On the flip side, looking at her more recent work, Desperados (2020) ended up being her lowest rated film to date. While Mo Gaffney brought her usual energy to the project, it just didn’t connect as strongly. Still, it’s interesting to see how Mo Gaffney’s roles have evolved over time, with some performances clearly leaving a bigger mark than others. Overall, Mo Gaffney continues to be a recognizable presence in comedy-driven films, even if not every project hits the same high notes as Happy, Texas.