Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend Janelle James
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Sep 22, 2025 Janelle James, an actress, writer, and stand-up comedian famous for her role as Principal Ava Coleman on Abbott Elementary, chats with Conan O’Brien about her fascinating journey. She shares her diverse upbringing, discovering stand-up comedy, and the thrill of hitting the road with mentors. Janelle reflects on her unexpected TV fame during the pandemic, her character's hustler vibe, and her family's amusing reactions. Plus, there's a light-hearted segment where the hosts share insights on a listener's review—definitely a mix of humor and heartfelt moments!
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From Islands To NYC Hustles
- Janelle moved from St. Thomas to Maryland at 16, then to New York driven by Madonna-inspired dreams.
- She hustled through many jobs in NYC before starting comedy, turning everyday skills into income.
Open Mic From A Grocery Flyer
- A flyer in a grocery store led Janelle to her first open mic and four-minute set that hooked her into stand-up.
- She quickly joined road tours with Rob Delaney and others, learning the craft on the road.
The Road As Comedy School
- Janelle learned craft and business by watching seasoned comedians on the road and copying rhythms.
- Touring acts as a practical school where performance and business lessons happen together.