Shirley Ann Hemphill (July 1, 1947 – December 10, 1999) was an influential American stand-up comedian and actress, best remembered for her role as Shirley Wilson on the hit sitcom "What's Happening!!" Her journey from a small-town girl in Asheville, North Carolina, to a household name in Hollywood is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and trailblazing spirit.
Early Life and Beginnings
Born and raised in Asheville, North Carolina, Shirley Hemphill was the daughter of Richard and Mozella Hemphill. Growing up in a modest household, Shirley developed a keen sense of humor early on, often entertaining friends and family with her quick wit and lively personality. Despite the challenges of her environment, she excelled academically and graduated from Asheville High School in 1965.
Move to Los Angeles
In the early 1970s, Shirley decided to pursue her passion for comedy more seriously. With just a few hundred dollars in her pocket, she moved to Los Angeles, a city known for its burgeoning entertainment industry. Initially, she took up various odd jobs, including working as a waitress, to support herself while honing her craft in local comedy clubs.
Breakthrough in Comedy
Shirley's big break came when she started performing at the Comedy Store, a renowned comedy club in Los Angeles. Her unique style and infectious energy quickly caught the attention of established comedians and industry insiders. It was here that she was discovered by comedian and writer Flip Wilson, who helped her land a spot on his popular variety show, "The Flip Wilson Show."
Television Stardom
In 1976, Shirley's career took a significant leap forward when she was cast as Shirley Wilson, the wisecracking waitress on the ABC sitcom "What's Happening!!" The show was an instant hit, and Shirley's character became a fan favorite. Her performance was so impactful that it earned her a salary of $15,000 per episode, a substantial amount for that era.
Financial Success and Investments
Beyond her earnings from "What's Happening!!", Shirley was astute with her finances. She invested in real estate, purchasing a home in the affluent Encino neighborhood of Los Angeles. Her property, valued at around $500,000 at the time, showed her keen sense for financial stability and growth.
Stand-Up Comedy and Tours
Even at the height of her television success, Shirley never abandoned her roots in stand-up comedy. She headlined numerous comedy tours across the United States, performing in sold-out venues and earning upwards of $10,000 per show. Her tours were not only financially lucrative but also solidified her reputation as one of the leading female comedians of her time.
Later Career and Challenges
After "What's Happening!!" ended in 1979, Shirley continued to work in television, including a spin-off series, "What's Happening Now!!", which aired from 1985 to 1988. Despite the show's moderate success, Shirley faced challenges in finding roles that matched her talent. The entertainment industry, often biased against African American women, limited the opportunities available to her.
Contributions to the Community
Shirley was known for her generosity and commitment to giving back to her community. She frequently performed at charity events and fundraisers, supporting causes such as education for underprivileged children and cancer research. Her philanthropic efforts extended to her hometown, where she funded scholarships for students at Asheville High School.
Legacy and Impact
Shirley Hemphill passed away on December 10, 1999, at the age of 52. Her death was a significant loss to the comedy and television world. However, her legacy lives on through the countless comedians she inspired and the groundbreaking path she paved for future generations of African American women in comedy.
Exclusive Insights
- Mentorship: Shirley was known to mentor young comedians, including a then-unknown Martin Lawrence, offering him advice and support early in his career.
- Unreleased Projects: Before her untimely death, Shirley was working on a memoir that promised to give fans a deep dive into her life and struggles in Hollywood.
- Influence on Pop Culture: Shirley's catchphrases and comedic style have been referenced in various television shows and movies, highlighting her lasting impact on pop culture.
- Personal Collection: Shirley was an avid collector of African American art, amassing a collection worth over $200,000, which included works by artists such as Jacob Lawrence and Romare Bearden.
Shirley Hemphill's story is one of resilience, talent, and unwavering dedication to her craft. Her contributions to comedy and television continue to be celebrated, and her life serves as an inspiration to many aspiring entertainers.
