Wanda Sykes was born on July 7, 1964, in Portsmouth, Virginia. She grew up in a middle-class family and attended Hampton University, where she studied marketing. After graduating, she landed her first job as a contracting specialist at the National Security Agency.
Sykes discovered her passion for comedy when she performed in a talent show in 1987. Despite her successful career at the NSA, she decided to pursue her dream of becoming a comedian. In 1992, she left her job to focus on her comedy career full-time.
One of Sykes' big breaks came when she joined the cast of the hit show The New Adventures of Old Christine. Her sharp wit and comedic timing made her a fan favorite. She also made frequent guest appearances on HBO's Curb Your Enthusiasm, showcasing her talent for improv comedy.
In 2009, Sykes hosted her own late-night talk show on Fox called The Wanda Sykes Show. The show featured a mix of comedy sketches, celebrity interviews, and musical performances. Sykes' unique comedic style and no-holds-barred humor earned her critical acclaim and an Emmy Award.
Aside from her work on television, Sykes has also appeared in several mainstream films. She had roles in movies such as Evan Almighty, License to Wed, and Monster-in-Law. Her voice work as Granny in the Ice Age franchise also showcased her comedic talent.
After eight years of marriage to record producer Dave Hall, Sykes came out as a lesbian. In 2008, she married her wife, Alex Sykes. The couple has two children together, a son named Lucas and a daughter named Olivia.
Wanda Sykes has solidified her place as one of the most beloved comedians in the industry. Her bold humor, quick wit, and unapologetic honesty have won over audiences worldwide. Whether on television, in film, or on stage, Sykes continues to entertain and inspire with her comedic genius.