Naomi Winders married Jack McBrayer
What were you like as a teen?
I was always a ham, and as a teen I was definitely a class clown. (I was even voted Class Clown my Senior year!) I loved performing in the drama club, especially the comedic relief roles, and I just loved making people laugh any way I could! My dream was to be on Saturday Night Live (and I still think that would be pretty cool).
Did you have an un-sexy starter job?
I got hired on the sketch comedy show Studio C right after college, but since it’s a television job with an off-season, I’ve worked a lot of “un-sexy” jobs in between. As a way to earn money and as a way to keep myself busy. I got so much material from those jobs! I worked at toy stores, coffee shops, and science conferences. I would recommend to any creative to have a “normal” job at some point.
What’s your biggest comedy achievement to date?
I’ve gotten to work with several comedy legends but maybe my favorite moment was performing in a sketch with Jack McBrayer and I was cast as the “character” of the sketch. It was so much fun getting to play opposite him!
When you were coming up in comedy, what helped you stick with it?
It helped to have a group of people that were as passionate about what we were doing as I was! It was great to write and perform together and have some people to hold me accountable.
Have you ever dealt with trolls?
I have dealt with trolls online, because as a fat woman in comedy it’s kind of hard not to 🤪. Honestly, the best way I’ve found to handle that is to try to avoid it all together. Don’t look at comments or reply. If you reply, it just feels never-ending. I’ve also dealt with tough situations with colleagues, but that’s a bit longer of a story lol
On your deathbed, what transcendent advice would you croak at a young comedian?
You’re funnier than most men want you to believe!
Best comedy advice you ever got?
Write what makes ~you~ laugh.
How has being funny helped you in your life?
It’s definitely help me feel more comfortable in a space I’m unfamiliar with because I’m able to connect with people quicker. It also helps me see the humor and light is crappy situations.
What specific things should a novice comic do to shape their voice?
Keep an observation journal! I just write notes on my phone. Write down anything that makes you stop and think.
What is your go-to show or movie?
The 2003 live action Peter Pan! Full of whimsy, joy, and a good cry.
What single word always cracks you up?
Anytime someone accidentally says “do do” in a sentence.
