10 Questions With Jill Kimmel
Comedian and actor
1. How did you come to Arizona?
I was born in Brooklyn, but we moved to Las Vegas when I was 6. Then my dad got a job in Arizona when I was 15, so I came here kicking and screaming.
2. What’s it like growing up in a funny family?
A lot better than growing up with a bunch of boring people, that’s for sure. Except you have to be prepared to get teased at all times.
3. When did you first realize that you were funny?
I never really thought I was funny, but I realized a lot of my friends thought I was. When I decided to start doing stand-up, I just had to hope they were right!
4. What are the challenges of being a female stand-up comic?
I take a lot longer to get ready than my male counterparts.
5. How do you balance being the mom of two teenagers with your life on the road?
There’s a very involved calendar. The first things that go in there are the school obligations. Then family events. Then scheduled downtime with the important people in my life. Then I allow myself to cancel any and all of that nonsense for work.
6. A lot of your success is due to your hustle. What advice do you have for women pursuing their dreams?
Don’t let anyone tell you that your dreams are stupid, even if they are.
7. You are devoted to animal rescue. Why?
Animals don’t talk back and they can’t help themselves, so it’s our job to make their lives better.
8. Do you have rescue animals yourself?
I do! I have a Havanese-poodle mix named Sonny Grover Ruff, also known as Sonny Bo Bunny, Sonny Baker, Sonny B, Sugar Boots or Velvet Angel. The cuter you are, the more nicknames you get.
9. What other ways do you give back locally?
I do a lot of fundraisers for various charities, but I work out of town so often that I don’t get to do as many events as I would like. One of my favorite organizations is Healing Hearts Animal Rescue. They’re doing amazing things for animals, and I love working with them!
10. Anything else you want to share with Frontdoors readers?
My favorite food is peanut butter.
