50 Facts About Sarah Silverman

Early Life and Upbringing

Sarah Silverman's journey began in Bedford, New Hampshire, where she was born on December 1, 1970. Her upbringing played a crucial role in shaping her comedic style and fearless approach to controversial topics.

1. Sarah Silverman was born to a family that encouraged creativity and independence.
2. Her father, Donald Silverman, owned a clothing store, and her mother, Beth Ann Silverman, was a photographer and theatre director.
3. The family moved to Manchester, New Hampshire, after her parents' divorce.
4. Silverman has three older sisters: Susan, Laura, and Jodyne, all of whom are involved in creative fields.
5. She attended the Derryfield School, a college preparatory school in Manchester, New Hampshire.
6. Silverman graduated in 1988 and later attended New York University for a year but did not graduate.
7. Her father encouraged her to focus on her career in comedy rather than pursuing higher education.

Early Career in Comedy

Sarah's first steps into the world of comedy were marked by determination and a unique comedic voice that set her apart from her peers.

8. At 17, Silverman first tried stand-up comedy in a Boston club.
9. She began distributing flyers and performing at various New York City comedy clubs.
10. Silverman made her network stand-up comedy debut on the Late Show with David Letterman on July 3, 1997.
11. In 1993, Lorne Michaels hired her as a writer and featured player for Saturday Night Live (SNL).
12. Although she was part of SNL for only 18 weeks, her time there was marked by controversy.
13. She was fired after one season, with only one of her sketches making it past dress rehearsal.
14. Following her stint at SNL, Silverman performed on Mr. Show with Bob and David from 1995 to 1997.

The Sarah Silverman Program

Sarah's big break came with her own show, The Sarah Silverman Program, which showcased her comedic talents and unique perspective.

15. In 2007, Silverman starred in and produced The Sarah Silverman Program.
16. The show ran for three seasons on Comedy Central.
17. Silverman was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her performance.
18. The show received favorable reviews and showcased her versatility as both a writer and actress.

Personal Life

Sarah's personal life has been as colorful and public as her career, with several high-profile relationships and a commitment to activism.

19. Silverman was in a relationship with Jimmy Kimmel from 2002 to 2008.
20. She dated Welsh actor Michael Sheen from January 2014 to December 2018.
21. Silverman has also been in relationships with Alec Sulkin and Kyle Dunnigan.
22. Beyond her comedic talents, Silverman is known for her activism and involvement in various social and political causes.

Awards and Accolades

Sarah's contributions to comedy and entertainment have not gone unnoticed, earning her numerous awards and nominations.

23. Silverman has won several awards, including two Primetime Emmy Awards for her work on The Sarah Silverman Program.
24. She has also received two Screen Actors Guild Awards.
25. Her awards and nominations are a testament to her dedication and talent in the entertainment industry.

Film Career

Sarah's talents extend beyond the stage and small screen, with notable roles in various films.

26. Silverman has appeared in numerous films, including There’s Something About Mary (1998), Heartbreakers (2001), and School of Rock (2003).
27. She voiced Vanellope von Schweetz in Wreck-It Ralph (2012) and its sequel, Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018).
28. Her dramatic performances in Take This Waltz (2011) and I Smile Back (2015) earned her critical acclaim.
29. In 2017, Silverman appeared in the thriller The Book of Henry.
30. She played Billie Jean King’s outspoken manager in the biopic Battle of the Sexes.

Mental Health and Substance Abuse

Sarah has been open about her struggles with mental health and substance abuse, using her platform to raise awareness and reduce stigma.

31. Silverman has been open about her struggles with depression, which began at an early age.
32. Her memoir The Bedwetter: Stories of Courage, Redemption, and Pee (2010) details her experiences with depression and bed-wetting.
33. In I Smile Back, Silverman portrayed a substance-abusing adulterous suburban mother, a role that required her to delve into a very dark place.
34. Silverman is a big supporter of marijuana legalization and has spoken publicly about her experiences with the substance.

Activism and Social Commentary

Sarah's fearlessness extends beyond comedy, as she actively engages in social and political causes.

35. Silverman is a spokesperson for the Center for Reproductive Rights' Draw the Line campaign.
36. In the 2016 presidential election, Silverman endorsed Bernie Sanders.
37. Her subversive pointed commentaries on the social construction of race, gender, and religion have made her a prominent figure in social commentary.

Additional Interesting Facts

Sarah's life and career are filled with fascinating tidbits that showcase her unique personality and talents.

38. Silverman’s favorite movie is The One and Only (1978).
39. In November 2018, she was awarded a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Television.
40. Silverman was ranked #29 on Maxim magazine’s Hot 100 Women of 2007 list and #74 in 2002.
41. In 2012, she became the first female guest on Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.
42. Silverman once wrote an article for Penthouse magazine.
43. On July 11, 2001, she caused a major controversy by using a racist term during an appearance on Late Night with Conan O’Brien.
44. Silverman plays acoustic guitar, showcasing her musical talents beyond comedy and acting.
45. Her favorite joke is the Aristocrats joke, which she has retold in various forms throughout her career.
46. Silverman’s impact on comedy is significant, inspiring a generation of comedians to be more bold and honest in their performances.
47. In Greg the Bunny, a television series that aired from 2002 to 2004, Silverman played a significant role.
48. She has done voice work on various comedy shows, including Bob’s Burgers.
49. Silverman began appearing in community theatre and school productions as an adolescent.
50. Silverman and director Sam Seder made a six-episode television series sequel titled Pilot Season, featuring her character from their independent film Who’s the Caboose?.

Sarah Silverman's Lasting Impact

Sarah Silverman has carved out a unique space in comedy and entertainment. Her fearless approach to tackling controversial topics with humor and satire sets her apart. From her early days on Saturday Night Live to her acclaimed show The Sarah Silverman Program, she's consistently pushed boundaries. Beyond comedy, her activism for women's rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and healthcare shows her commitment to social justice. Silverman's versatility shines through her dramatic roles in films like Take This Waltz and I Smile Back. Her openness about personal struggles, like depression and substance abuse, adds depth to her public persona. Whether making us laugh or think, Silverman's influence is undeniable. Her legacy in comedy and activism continues to inspire new generations, ensuring her impact will be felt for years to come.