Club Shay Shay - Jess Hilarious Part 1 Released on March 26, 2025
Introduction In this episode of Club Shay Shay, NFL legend Shannon Sharpe welcomes comedian and social media star Jess Hilarious. Known for her vibrant presence both on stage and online, Jess shares her journey through comedy, personal growth, and navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Upbringing Jess Hilarious opens up about her childhood in West Baltimore City, detailing a nurturing two-parent household where both her mother, a church deacon, and her father, a DJ and Marine, played pivotal roles. [10:33] She recounts the balance her parents maintained—strict and lenient parenting styles—and the values they instilled in her and her brother, Kevin. Jess emphasizes the importance of her upbringing in shaping her work ethic and approach to life, stating, “They gave us what they didn’t have.”
Educational Experiences Jess discusses her time attending a predominantly white high school in York, Pennsylvania. Initially apprehensive, she overcame fears of being different and embraced the diversity, which helped her become one of the most popular students. [15:48] She reflects on how this experience exposed her to different cultures and the feeling of being a minority, teaching her resilience and adaptability.
Career Beginnings and Challenges Transitioning into her career, Jess shares her early struggles, including dabbling in drugs during high school due to peer influence and a lack of familial support among her friends. [18:04] She candidly discusses her single semester studying mortuary science, where a frightening clinical experience led her to abandon that path. [23:07] Jess also admits to past mistakes, including stealing from a modeling agency, for which she served time in jail. [26:31] She expresses remorse over these actions, highlighting her transformation and commitment to personal growth.
Breaking into Comedy and Social Media Jess details her entry into the comedy scene, inspired by pop culture figures like Maury Povich. [25:08] Her first viral video was a parody of the "Who's the Father?" segment, which propelled her into social media stardom. [26:01] Emphasizing authenticity, she developed a unique comedic voice that resonated with a broad audience. Jess states, “I just kept doing videos,” illustrating her dedication to honing her craft.
Authenticity and Embracing Identity A significant portion of the conversation centers on the importance of embracing one's true self. [04:46] Jess stresses that staying authentic in her speech, dress, and demeanor keeps her relatable and grounded. She shares her admiration for fellow comedians who remain true to themselves, saying, “Being unapologetically me” is crucial for her connection with fans.
Interactions with the Comedy Community Jess discusses her experiences touring with established comedians like Katt Williams and Mike Epps. [43:14] While she maintains professional relationships, she prefers keeping personal distance to preserve her authenticity. Jess recounts mentoring moments from industry veterans, such as Mike Epps advising her on business ownership, which have been instrumental in her career development.
Television Ventures and Wild 'N Out Transitioning to television, Jess talks about her stint on Wild 'N Out and her role in the sitcom Rel on Fox. [35:30] She describes the audition process for Wild 'N Out, highlighting its competitive and spontaneous nature. [56:26] Despite initial success, the show faced legal battles, leading to its cancellation. Jess reflects on the challenges of working in television, expressing both gratitude for the opportunities and frustrations with the creative constraints she encountered.
Handling Controversy and Negative Feedback The discussion delves into the difficulties of managing public perception and negative comments on social media. [72:57] Jess emphasizes the importance of not engaging in online conflicts, stating, “You can’t go to war with everybody.” She advocates for focusing on personal growth and ignoring baseless negativity, reflecting a mature approach to handling fame.
Personal Life and Relationships Jess touches on her personal life, including her role as a mother and her relationships within the industry. [85:37] She candidly shares experiences with family members who have been part of her professional journey, discussing the complexities of working with loved ones and the emotional toll it can take.
Views on Cosmetic Surgery and Body Image Addressing societal pressures, Jess shares her perspective on cosmetic surgeries like Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs). [82:27] She advocates for moderation, acknowledging the desire for personal enhancement while cautioning against extreme measures that can have serious health implications.
Conclusion Throughout the episode, Jess Hilarious provides an unfiltered look into her life, balancing humor with heartfelt insights. Shannon Sharpe and Jess engage in a dynamic conversation that underscores the importance of authenticity, resilience, and personal integrity in the face of adversity. Jess's journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a prominent figure in comedy serves as an inspiring narrative of growth and self-discovery.
Notable Quotes:
- “Being unapologetically me” – Jess Hilarious [04:46]
- “If you lose who you are, that’s your identity” – Shannon Sharpe [05:57]
- “You can’t go to war with everybody” – Jess Hilarious [73:41]
- “People put a ceiling on you” – Jess Hilarious [71:55]
Final Thoughts Jess Hilarious's candid storytelling and insightful reflections make this episode a compelling listen for fans and newcomers alike. Her ability to intertwine humor with personal experiences offers a nuanced perspective on the challenges and triumphs of navigating the entertainment industry.