How grief, creating characters and wigs helped comic Heather McMahan to build a loyal following

The article discusses how comedian Heather McMahan gained a loyal following by using humor as a coping mechanism for grief and creating various characters on social media. When she released her first Netflix comedy special, “Son I Never Had,” her fans celebrated her success, feeling like they were part of her journey from the beginning.

Heather McMahan’s journey took an unexpected turn when she moved from Los Angeles back to her hometown of Atlanta after her father’s passing due to pancreatic cancer in 2015. To distract herself from grief, she began crafting and portraying various characters, sharing short comedic bits on social media. Among these characters were boozy Brenda Carlyle and Margie McDaniels, a self-proclaimed real estate agent and a Hollywood assistant to the stars.

McMahan’s decision to create content that made her laugh resonated with her audience, leading to a substantial following on Instagram. This dedicated fan base has kept her busy, as she has recently taped a second stand-up special set to premiere next year and is selling tour dates for 2024, including shows in Australia. Additionally, McMahan hosts a weekly podcast called “Absolutely Not,” has a development deal for a TV show, and plans to write a book.

In an interview with The Big Big News, McMahan addressed her unconventional living arrangement, living with her husband, Jeff, and her mother, Robin. She acknowledged that many people find it difficult to understand but pointed out that in many cultures, multiple generations of a family often live under one roof.

The interview also delved into the personal aspects of McMahan’s life, including how her comedy special addresses her father’s death and how people can support those grieving. McMahan emphasized the importance of validation and checking in with grieving individuals, especially after the initial outpouring of support fades away.

Regarding her ability to consistently produce fresh content through touring, social media, and her podcast, McMahan attributed it to her keen observation of life and her commitment to documenting it with thorough notes.

Finally, the interview touched upon the different standards often applied to female comedians compared to their male counterparts. McMahan noted that while men have long been discussing their families in their comedy, female comedians are sometimes met with criticism when doing the same, even though it’s a common theme in the industry.

Overall, Heather McMahan’s journey from grief to comedy success showcases the power of humor and relatability in building a loyal following in the entertainment world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Comedy Success

More about Comedy Success

• Heather McMahan’s Netflix comedy special, “Son I Never Had”
• Heather McMahan’s official website (for more information on her career and projects)
• “Absolutely Not,” Heather McMahan’s weekly podcast
• Information on Heather McMahan’s upcoming tour dates and shows in 2024