31 Facts About Heidi Gardner

Early Life and Background

Heidi Gardner's journey to fame began long before she graced the stages of "Saturday Night Live." Her early life is filled with interesting tidbits that shaped her into the comedian she is today.

1. Born on July 27, 1983, in Kansas City, Missouri, Heidi Lynn Gardner grew up in the Midwest.
2. Gardner attended Notre Dame de Sion, an all-girls Catholic high school in Kansas City.
3. She was a self-described "shy kid" who found solace in watching comedy shows and movies.
4. Heidi's love for comedy was sparked by watching "Saturday Night Live" and "The Simpsons" during her childhood.
5. Before pursuing a career in comedy, Gardner worked at a hair salon for nearly a decade.

Education and Early Career

Heidi's path to comedy wasn't straightforward. She took several detours before finding her true calling.

6. Gardner initially attended the University of Kansas but later transferred to the University of Missouri.
7. She dropped out of college after two years to move to Los Angeles and pursue acting.
8. In LA, Heidi enrolled in the Groundlings Theatre & School, a renowned improv and sketch comedy troupe.
9. Gardner honed her comedic skills at the Groundlings, where she eventually became a main company member.
10. During her time at the Groundlings, she performed alongside future stars like Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph.

Breakthrough with "Saturday Night Live"

Heidi Gardner's big break came when she joined the cast of "Saturday Night Live" (SNL), a dream come true for any comedian.

11. Gardner joined the cast of SNL in 2017 as a featured player.
12. She was promoted to a repertory player in 2019, solidifying her place on the show.
13. Heidi is known for her memorable characters, including "Angel, Every Boxer's Girlfriend" and "Bailey Gismert, the teen film critic."
14. Her impressions of celebrities like Kristen Schaal and Allison Janney have garnered praise from fans and critics alike.
15. Gardner's unique comedic style and versatility have made her a standout performer on SNL.

Voice Acting and Other Projects

Heidi Gardner's talents extend beyond live-action comedy. She has also made a name for herself in the world of voice acting and other projects.

16. Gardner voices the character of Cooch in the animated series "SuperMansion."
17. She has lent her voice to characters in popular shows like "Mike Tyson Mysteries" and "Bratz."
18. Heidi appeared in the 2018 film "Life of the Party," starring Melissa McCarthy.
19. She had a recurring role in the TV series "Veep," playing the character of Leon West's assistant.
20. Gardner has also appeared in commercials for brands like Old Navy and Pepsi.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond her professional achievements, Heidi Gardner leads an interesting personal life filled with hobbies and passions.

21. Gardner married Zeb Wells, a writer and director known for his work on "Robot Chicken" and Marvel Comics.
22. The couple shares a love for comic books and often attends comic conventions together.
23. Heidi is an avid fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and frequently attends their games.
24. She enjoys painting and often shares her artwork on social media.
25. Gardner is a proud cat mom to her beloved feline, Tweaky.

Fun and Lesser-Known Facts

Heidi Gardner's life is full of quirky and lesser-known facts that add to her charm and appeal.

26. Gardner has a tattoo of a pair of scissors on her arm, a nod to her years working as a hairstylist.
27. She once worked as a nanny for a Hollywood producer's children.
28. Heidi has a collection of vintage clothing and enjoys shopping at thrift stores.
29. She is a huge fan of the "Harry Potter" series and has visited the Wizarding World of Harry Potter multiple times.
30. Gardner has a knack for accents and often incorporates them into her comedy sketches.
31. Despite her success, Heidi remains humble and credits her family and friends for their unwavering support.

The Final Word on Heidi Gardner

Heidi Gardner's journey from Kansas City to the bright lights of Hollywood is nothing short of inspiring. Her versatility as an actress and comedian has made her a standout on Saturday Night Live. Beyond her comedic chops, Heidi's voice work in animated series and her roles in films showcase her wide-ranging talent.

Her dedication to her craft and ability to connect with audiences make her a beloved figure in entertainment. Whether she's making us laugh on SNL or lending her voice to animated characters, Heidi Gardner continues to leave a lasting impression.

Her story reminds us that with passion and perseverance, dreams can become reality. So, next time you see her on screen, remember the hard work and dedication behind that infectious smile. Heidi Gardner is a name to watch, and her star is only getting brighter.