By Nasim Pedrad is an Iranian-American actress and comedian renowned for her versatile performances across television and film. Born on November 18, 1981, in Tehran, Iran, she moved to the United States at three, settling in Los Angeles.
Pedrad’s career is marked by her dynamic roles in both comedic and dramatic genres, showcasing her broad acting range.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Pedrad’s professional journey began with her involvement in improv comedy, performing with the Sunday Company at The Groundlings, a renowned Los Angeles-based improv and sketch comedy troupe.
She also showcased her talent through her one-woman show, “Me, Myself & Iran,” which received critical acclaim and was selected for the 2007 HBO Comedy Festival in Las Vegas.
This performance earned her the LA Weekly Best Comedic Performance of the Year Award. Her early television appearances included minor roles in series such as “Gilmore Girls” (2006) and “The Winner” (2007), followed by a recurring role as Nurse Suri in “ER” (2007–2009).
Saturday Night Live (SNL)
In 2009, Pedrad joined the cast of NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) as a featured player, quickly ascending to repertory status in the 2011–2012 season.
During her tenure, she became known for her impressions of celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Arianna Huffington, and characters such as “The Girl You Wish You Hadn’t Started a Conversation With at a Party.” Her five-season run on SNL significantly elevated her profile in the entertainment industry.
Television Roles
Post-SNL, Pedrad continued to build her television career with notable roles:
- “Mulaney” (2014–2015): Pedrad played Jane Parvana in this Fox sitcom created by John Mulaney. Despite its initial promise, the show was canceled after one season due to low ratings.
- “New Girl” (2015–2018): She portrayed Aly Nelson, a police officer and love interest to Jake Johnson’s Nick Miller. Her character’s relationship with Nick was well-received by audiences.
- “Scream Queens” (2015): In this Fox horror-comedy series, Pedrad played Gigi Caldwell, contributing to the show’s satirical take on horror tropes.
- “People of Earth” (2017): Pedrad starred as Special Agent Alex Foster in this TBS series about a support group for alien abductees, blending her comedic talents with science fiction elements.
- “Chad” (2021–2024): Demonstrating her creative prowess, Pedrad created, produced, and starred in this TBS sitcom. She portrayed a 14-year-old Persian-American boy navigating adolescence, aiming to break stereotypes and provide authentic representation. The series received positive reviews for its humor and cultural commentary.
Film Contributions
Ped rad’s film career includes a mix of live-action and voice roles:
- “The Lorax” (2012): She voiced Isabella Once-ler in this animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s classic tale.
- “Despicable Me 2” (2013): Pedrad lent her voice to Jillian, contributing to the film’s comedic elements.
- “Cookies” (2014): She starred as Rebekkah Halverson in this horror-comedy about a zombie virus affecting schoolchildren.
- “Aladdin” (2019): Pedrad played Dalia, Princess Jasmine’s handmaiden and friend, in Disney’s live-action remake.
- “Desperados” (2020): She portrayed Wesley Darya in this Netflix comedy about a group of friends embarking on a wild adventure. The film received mixed reviews, with some critics praising Pedrad’s performance amidst a plot they found lacking.
Recent and Upcoming Projects
In 2023, Pedrad continued her voice acting work with roles in animated series such as “Pretzel and the Puppies” and “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures,” showcasing her versatility in bringing animated characters to life.
Looking ahead, Pedrad is set to appear in “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F,” the fourth installment of the iconic action-comedy franchise, where she will star alongside Eddie Murphy.
Impact and Legacy
Nasim Pedrad’s career reflects a commitment to challenging stereotypes and expanding representation in media. By taking on diverse roles that blend humor with depth,
she has carved out a unique space for herself in Hollywood. Her work, particularly in creating and starring in “Chad,” highlights her dedication to authentic storytelling and her ability to connect with audiences through comedy and heartfelt narratives.
