Fortune Feimster: From Karaoke Machine Gigs to Hollywood Stardom
In a candid interview, comedian Fortune Feimster opens up about her journey in comedy, revealing the highs and lows that have shaped her career. From a cringe-worthy early performance to landing roles in major films like Zootropolis 2, Feimster's story is one of resilience and humour.
Early Career Struggles and Inspirations
Feimster recalls a particularly disastrous gig early in her career. "I did a charity event in Virginia, in a biker bar," she says. "The stage was a crate, the light was like one from a construction site, and a karaoke machine served as the sound system. No one enjoyed the show, including myself." Despite such setbacks, she found inspiration in comedy legends like Carol Burnett, whose silly yet genuine persona left a lasting impact.
Voice Acting Secrets and Zootropolis 2
Feimster plays Nibbles the beaver in the upcoming Zootropolis 2, a role shrouded in secrecy. "I never saw the full film or got to read the script ahead of time," she explains. "The director, Jared Bush, would tell me what was happening in each scene as I recorded. I had no idea how big a part my character played—I assumed I was just popping up here and there!" This unique approach to voice acting added an element of surprise to her performance.
Working with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Future Projects
Feimster stars alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in the series Fubar, describing the experience as inspirational. "He has accomplished so much—movies, governor, bodybuilding champion," she notes. "On set, he would hold court, and every day felt like a learning opportunity." Looking ahead, Feimster has wrapped projects with Will Ferrell and Kim Kardashian but hopes to pivot to more serious roles. "It would be cool to play a character where I'm required to be less of myself," she adds.
Comedy Challenges and Personal Insights
Feimster's current show, Takin' Care of Biscuits, delves into childhood stories, with her mother serving as a great source of comedy. However, she admits to the challenges of constant writing and travel. "You finish a special and have to start over," she says. "Sometimes I think, 'Gosh, there's not that much interesting stuff about me, what else can I come up with?!' But that's what drives us to get better." Her laid-back preshow rituals, like arriving just 15 minutes before a gig, reflect her easy-going nature.
From heckles turned loving to jokes that don't land, Feimster's career is a testament to the unpredictable world of comedy. Her tour continues across North America and Europe, with a stop at Hackney Empire in London on 3 June.
