By Frank Bublitz
March is celebrated by many honorable and positive causes. One of which is the cause to celebrate the many positive contributions of women to our world.
This article will give you bits of information that will help you learn more about some of the “funny ladies” in or from the state of Michigan.
Of course, we must also focus on the women upon whose shoulders these modern funny females stand.
Lily Tomlin, born in Detroit, has been a force of nature in the comedy world for many decades. She has plied her trade on Laugh-In and in many movies and specials. She has been active recently, appearing as Lou in 2023’s 80 for Brady.
Sandra Bernhardt was born in Flint. She is a comedian, actress, and author who has appeared both in comedic and dramatic roles in a decades-long career. One of he best-known roles was Nancy Bartlett-Thomas on Roseanne.
Gilda Radner’s star shone bright in too short a time. Who can forget Rosanne Rosanna Dana in Saturday Night Live. What Gilda may best be remembered for is her battle against Ovarian Cancer. The battle, remission, and eventual death from that then misunderstood disease has brought much-needed attention to one of the most difficult cancers to treat and survive. Her openness saved lives.
All of the women mentioned below, and many more, either were born, were long term residents, or now live and perform in Michigan. Excluding other performers from the past, or stars of today is only done because the list is so long. These performers were actually top citations in the internet search on the topic:
Crystal Marie Denha: like many other performers who want to make a consistent living performing, she moved from her Detroit roots to Los Angeles. I have seen some of her YouTube performances. Yes, she is extremely gorgeous. But her beauty also lies in the way that she dismisses stereotypes about being an American of Iraqi Descent.
Mary Ann DeMoss, originally from Sterling Heights, creates dynamic and humous characters to bring the laughs. She has appeared on BET and is a member of the Troupe The Comedy Clique.
Stefanie Ann, a Detroit based standup comedienne, is often referred to as “The Downriver Diva.” Her comedy covers personal experiences with sobriety and being a hardworking mother. One of the most important things about her work is that she practices it in the Midwest.
Do you know of funny females that future articles could mention? Please let me know by email at bublitzf4@gmail.com.
