The Lady with the Funny Bone - Sherri Shepherd

My first memory of you was as Sheila from The Jamie Foxx Show. Since then, I've seen you on various TV shows as well as guest hosting on The View. You appear to be a natural behind the camera. Did you always know you wanted a career in entertainment or was it something that "just happened"?
Sherri Shepherd: I knew at 4 years old, that I loved performing in front of people. At 4, my grandmother use to cook Sunday dinner for all of the family (cousins, 2nd cousins, aunts, uncles, great aunts, etc.) and after we ate, she'd put me in front of them and say "do your little program" and I would make everyone laugh. As I got older, I knew I'd either be a radio deejay or I would marry Michael Jackson. My career did not just "happen". As a Christian, I don't believe in "coincidences". I believe that God appoints and directs everything. So this career is truly a blessing from above.

What has been one of your most unforgettable roles?
Sherri Shepherd: I LOVED playing the crazy "Sheila" on the Jamie Foxx show. Jamie allowed me to improv a lot of my scenes, and sometimes he'd be laughing so hard at my antics, he'd make me do take after take! There was one episode where I wanted to be in his music video, and I came out dancing crazy in a red dress... I fasted on water for 5 days before wearing that tight dress... after Jamie made me do that dance scene about 6 or 7 times, I was ready to pass out!

You wear multiple hats (mother/actress/comedian/etc). a) How do you balance it all and b) How do you stay grounded with your success?
Sherri Shepherd: Girl... PRAYER!!!! And this baby has made me run to the grocery store to purchase some One-A-Day multivitamins! I stay grounded, cuz' I know that this success is a blessing... God giveth and God taketh away.

What advice would you give someone who is interested in pursing a career as an actor?
Sherri Shepherd: Make sure that is really what you want to do, cuz' this business is not for the fainthearted. There are very few "overnight" successes. Most successful people you see, worked their butts off...so unless you get on American Idol and get in the Top 10 and make it to the Top 2, get ready for the long haul.