Meet Jill Kimmel

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jill Kimmel.

Jill, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I had always dreamed of being an actor, but it was so much maintenance to make sure my “look” was always what a casting agent wanted, that I realized I’d probably never get very far. I just wanted to show up and perform…I was never that focused on how long my hair is or if I’d gained a few pounds. It wasn’t until I went to a comedy show that the idea of doing stand-up entered my mind.

My friends always told me I should be doing comedy because I was funny. My first show was July 2, 2006—and it’s the only thing I’ve ever stuck with.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The road here was paved with a lot of open mics, networking, and gigs where drunk people talked over me. All of it made me a stronger comic!

We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
My main job is doing stand-up, but I also do small acting jobs, voiceover work and I emcee a lot of events.

I’ve produced festivals and done a ton of charity events, but the thing I’m most proud of is the five military tours I’ve gotten to be a part of. Nothing like someone who has given up everything to defend our country, saying “thank you” just for making them laugh.

I guess I’m unique in the way that my jokes are all just stories about my life, so you won’t get those specific stories from anyone else. But I’m also relatable enough that after a show, people feel like we just hung out in the break room at work.

What’s your outlook for the industry over the next 5-10 years?
I think the comedy scene has gotten to a point where it’s starting to turn around again. It’s climbed to a certain point with cable specials and videos on the Internet, and is now coming back to the true art of standing on a stage, mic in hand, just you and the audience. I love that.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.jillkimmel.com
• Email: jillypi@gmail.com
• Instagram: @itsmejillkimmel
• Facebook: Jill Kimmel Comedy
• Twitter: @itsmejillkimmel

Image Credit:
Jen Emil

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