Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Foley.
Hi Erin, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a funny, gay lady from New York who unexpectedly fell in love with Los Angeles, so miracles do happen. I live in Beachwood Canyon with my partner and our puppy Jeter. I’ve carved out a career in comedy for the last 25 years, which has been amazing, exhausting and gin-fueled.
I started doing stand-up comedy over twenty years ago in New York City. I had no idea what I was doing and looking back – that was a good thing. I just wanted to be funny. The comedy scene in the late ’90s/2000s in New York was amazing. I would be slinging jokes every night, meeting amazing comics and of course – dancing. It was definitely the time of my life. Naturally, there were a lot of obstacles – I was in a male-dominated field (that hasn’t changed) and it was really rough to constantly be the only woman on the lineup most nights. The other hurdle was trying to figure out if I was gay. I mean – I was the gayest – but it took me a while to figure it all out. There’s no better place in the world to explore your sexuality than NYC! I did stand-up for about eight years before I came out onstage. It was scary but my world opened up (personally and professionally) when I did.
I wound up moving to Los Angeles about fifteen years ago to continue to do stand-up and to write. I produced one of the longest-running queer comedy shows in the country – Gays R Us – every month at the Hollywood Improv. Unfortunately, covid ended the thirteen-year run, but I’m back producing the show a couple of times a year at Dynasty Typewriter in Koreatown.
Over the last three or four years, I’ve transitioned to TV writing. I’ve been staffed on One Day at a Time and That 90’s Show which airs Jan 19th on Netflix.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Trying to have a career in the arts might be the bumpiest, craziest road you can travel down. Smooth? Absolutely not! I think trying to find a work/life balance has been the biggest struggle. It was hard to be on the road for so long and maintain any type of relationship. Thankfully my TV jobs have kept me in LA, which has given me an opportunity for me to be home with my partner. We’re about to celebrate our 5th year together so we got a puppy instead of the traditional gift made out of wood. The other day Jeter crapped on the carpet and I stepped in it so I’m rethinking the wood gift. Just kidding. Mostly.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Honestly, I’m most proud of my perseverance. I just kept going. From stand-up comedy to a comedy sports podcast (Sports Without Balls) to sitcom writing – I’ve kept growing and pivoting and setting new goals.
I think having a successful career as a stand-up for 23 years and then trying to be a TV writer (in my 40s) probably separates me from most people! It’s a huge learning curve and I’m paying my dues but I really enjoy it. Everyone makes fun of me, but I love having co-workers and going into the office. I know – barf emoji, but it’s true.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Everyone I’ve ever met in my life deserves credit! From day one, my friends and family have been an amazing support group. They’ve showed up on the good nights – album tapings, Comedy Central Special, late night TV spots AND on the bad nights – getting hit with an onion ring on stage. Yes, that happened. I have to give my sisters a special shout out. I have a twin sister and an older sister who are the greatest humans on Earth. And, of course, my incredible partner Sara who has to deal with all the highs and lows of my career. I’m so fortunate that I get to navigate life with her.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.erinkfoley.com, www.sportswithoutballs.com
- Instagram: erinkfoley
- Twitter: erinfoleycomic
