Becoming a comedian was never part of Anjelah Johnson-Reyes’ plan. She started out pursuing acting, going on auditions, working as an extra, waiting tables, and facing periods of unemployment when work wasn’t available. Comedy wasn’t the goal... it was something she stumbled into.
While taking an acting class, someone recognized her sense of humor and encouraged her to attend their joke writing class. That free class, held in a church, became the unexpected beginning of a new career. With only four months of open mics under her belt, Anjelah was already finding her footing in stand up.
Then came “Nail Salon.” After posting the bit on YouTube, the video went viral, exposing her comedy to millions and accelerating a journey that might otherwise have required years of grinding through clubs and building an audience one show at a time.
Her breakout led to MADtv, where she became known for memorable characters, including the beloved Vietnamese nail salon technician. She went on to build a successful career in stand-up, releasing comedy specials and performing on sold out tours.
Sometimes, all it takes is one thing to fast-forward time. For Anjelah, it was a video on YouTube. Years of auditions, waiting tables, unemployment, and figuring out what came next led to a moment that changed the trajectory of her career. She never planned on becoming a comedian, but one person’s encouragement, a free joke-writing class, and four months of open mics set something in motion.
The work still mattered but suddenly, the world could see it.
What if the thing that changes your life is something you never planned on doing?
