Fortune Feimster, an exceptional comedian, actress, and writer, has captured the hearts of comedy lovers worldwide with her wit and infectious humor. From her humble beginnings in North Carolina to becoming a recognizable face in Hollywood, Feimster’s story is one of perseverance and talent. With an estimated Fortune Feimster net worth of $5 million, her success stems from her multi-faceted career in stand-up comedy, acting, and writing.
This article takes a closer look at Fortune Feimster’s life, achievements, and the factors that have contributed to her growing net worth.
Early Life and Family
Childhood in North Carolina
Born Emily Fortune Feimster on July 1, 1980, in Charlotte, North Carolina, she was the youngest of three children in her family. Her parents, Mike and Ginger Feimster, named her Fortune after her maternal great-grandmother’s maiden name. Feimster grew up in Belmont, North Carolina, attending Belmont Central Elementary School and later South Point High School, where she actively participated in basketball, softball, and tennis.
While being an athlete in high school, Fortune always exuded a natural charisma that hinted at a future in entertainment. She graduated in 1998 and was even presented at the prestigious Gastonia Debutante Ball that same year.
Higher Education and Career Shifts
Feimster studied at Peace College, then a women-only institution, where she majored in communications. A natural leader, she was elected student body president and graduated summa cum laude in 2002. Her commencement speech at graduation left a lasting impression, as it marked one of her first moments showcasing her comedic flair.
Following her studies, she spent a year in Spain, broadening her horizons and discovering her passion for storytelling. Upon returning, she moved to Los Angeles in 2003 to explore a career in the entertainment industry.
Career Highlights
The Start of a Comedy Journey
Fortune Feimster initially worked as an assistant to actress Emily Procter, who recognized the young talent’s potential and encouraged her exploration of comedy. Feimster began honing her craft with The Groundlings Theatre, where she studied improv and sketch comedy. Her time there, including joining The Groundlings’ Sunday Company, laid the groundwork for her career.
Breakthrough in Stand-Up and Television
Feimster made her television debut on Last Comic Standing in 2010. This was followed by multiple stints as a panelist and writer on the popular Chelsea Lately talk show on E! Network. Her quick wit and comedic timing earned her a loyal fanbase and opened doors to further opportunities.
On the acting front, she gained recognition for her role as Collette Kimball-Kinney in the fourth season of The Mindy Project on Hulu. The show highlighted her talent for blending humor with relatability. Other notable appearances include roles in Glee, Life in Pieces, and The L Word: Generation Q.
Popular Stand-Up Specials
Feimster’s Netflix stand-up specials, Sweet & Salty (2020) and Good Fortune (2023), have been praised for their comedic brilliance and personal touch. By sharing stories about her Southern upbringing, coming out as a lesbian, and marrying her wife Jacquelyn Smith, Fortune creates comedy that resonates with a wide range of audiences.
Recent Projects
Fortune’s career expanded in 2023 when she joined Arnold Schwarzenegger in Netflix’s FUBAR, further expanding her acting portfolio. Meanwhile, her podcast Sincerely Fortune provides listeners with a deeper glimpse into her life and observations.
Fortune Feimster Net Worth
How She Built Her Wealth
Fortune Feimster net worth, estimated at $5 million, is a testament to her diverse talents and strategic career decisions. Key factors contributing to her wealth include:
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Stand-Up Comedy
Touring nationally and releasing Netflix comedy specials have been significant sources of income for Feimster. -
Television and Film Roles
Recurring roles on The Mindy Project and Life in Pieces boosted her presence in Hollywood, while film appearances in Soul, Chick Fight, and Yes Day added to her financial success. -
Writing and Producing
Feimster’s skills as a writer, showcased in works like Chelsea Lately, contributed to her rise in the entertainment industry. -
Endorsements and Podcasts
Hosting podcasts and participating in LGBTQ+ initiatives have added supplementary income over the years.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Emily Fortune Feimster |
| Net Worth | $5 Million |
| Date of Birth | July 1, 1980 |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (173 cm) |
| Major Shows | The Mindy Project, Sweet & Salty |
| Spouse | Jacquelyn Smith |
| Notable Ventures | Stand-Up Comedy, Acting, Podcasting |
Personal Life
Relationship and Marriage
Fortune Feimster came out in 2005 and has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. She married kindergarten teacher Jacquelyn Smith in 2020 after getting engaged in 2018. The couple divides their time between their homes in Los Angeles and Belmont, reflecting Feimster’s close connection to her Southern roots.
Struggles and Triumphs
While navigating her path in comedy, Feimster faced challenges, including breaking into a competitive industry as a plus-size lesbian comic. Her determination and authenticity set her apart, turning perceived obstacles into strengths. She uses her platform to inspire others to be unapologetically themselves.
Legacy and Contributions
Fortune Feimster is more than a comedian—she is a trailblazer in normalizing LGBTQ+ stories in mainstream media. Her success highlights the importance of representation, and her unique brand of humor continues to win over audiences worldwide.
Final Thoughts
Fortune Feimster’s journey from North Carolina to the national stage is a testament to her talent and determination. With her estimated Fortune Feimster net worth of $5 million, she has created a remarkable career while staying true to her roots and community.
