Fortune Feimster Opens Up About Comedy Career and Hollywood Adventures
In a candid interview, standup comedian and actress Fortune Feimster shares insights into her journey in comedy, her surprising role in the upcoming Zootropolis 2, and the invaluable lessons learned from working with Hollywood legend Arnold Schwarzenegger. Feimster, known for her relatable humor and vibrant stage presence, delves into the highs and lows of her career with refreshing honesty.
From Worrywart to Worry-Free: The Best Advice She Ever Received
Feimster reveals that early in her career, she struggled with constant anxiety about job security and opportunities in the unpredictable entertainment industry. "I used to be quite the worrywart," she admits. Her mother's sage advice, "don't borrow trouble – cross those bridges if and when you get there," became a guiding principle. This mindset shift allowed her to navigate the later stages of her career with greater freedom and appreciation for the journey.
Inspired by Comedy Icons and Voice Acting Secrets
Growing up, Feimster found inspiration in comedy greats like Carol Burnett, whose silly yet genuine persona captivated her both on and off screen. Today, she brings that same authenticity to her work, including her role as Nibbles the beaver in Zootropolis 2. "You don't get a script ahead of time for this top-secret movie," she explains, describing the unique challenges of voice acting. Director Jared Bush would brief her on scenes without revealing the full plot, leaving her unaware of her character's significance until much later.
The Gig from Hell and Pre-Show Rituals
Recalling one of her worst performances, Feimster laughs about a charity event in a Virginia biker bar early in her career. "The stage was a crate, the light was from a construction site, and a karaoke machine served as the sound system," she recounts. Unsurprisingly, no one enjoyed the show, including herself. Despite such experiences, she maintains a laid-back approach before performances, often arriving just 15 minutes before showtime and chatting casually with people, much to the amusement of her colleagues like Tom Papa.
Heckles, Jokes, and the Comedy Grind
During the filming of her first special, Sweet & Salty, Feimster faced a heckler who yelled "lesbian," a term that could be contentious in some regions but was delivered with affection in that context. Her current show, Takin' Care of Biscuits, draws heavily from childhood stories and her mother's antics, which audiences adore. However, not every joke lands perfectly; a bit about a restaurant gift card mishap, while hilariously embarrassing in real life, has struggled to translate on stage.
Working with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Future Aspirations
Feimster's role in the series Fubar alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger left a lasting impression. "He has accomplished so much – from movies to governance to bodybuilding," she says, describing how Schwarzenegger would hold court on set, offering daily lessons and inspiration. Looking ahead, Feimster has wrapped projects with Will Ferrell and Kim Kardashian and now aims to pivot to more serious roles that challenge her to step outside her comedic comfort zone.
Fortune Feimster's tour, Takin' Care of Biscuits, continues across North America and Europe, with a stop at Hackney Empire in London on June 3. Her journey underscores the relentless creativity and resilience required in comedy, proving that even when the material seems scarce, there's always another story to tell.
