Kathy Najimy

Kathy Najimy is a name that has been synonymous with comedy for over three decades. She has been an actress, comedian, writer, and activist – a true multi-hyphenate. Najimy’s acting career has been marked with significant wins such as her two-time Emmy nominations for her role as Olive Massery on “Veronica’s Closet” and a Screen Actors Guild Award for her work in the film “Hocus Pocus.” What most people don’t know is that Najimy is a passionate activist who champions various issues affecting women, the LGBTQ+ community, and animals.

Najimy first caught the world’s attention as a cast member of “Saturday Night Live” from 1986-1987, where she showcased her wit and impeccable comic timing. She then went on to star in several popular films, such as “Sister Act,” “Hocus Pocus,” and “Rat Race.” Her acting career also expanded to include voice-over work, such as in the animated films “The Lion King,” “WALL-E,” and “Tangled.”

Apart from her work as an actress, Najimy is outspoken about her beliefs and has used her platform to support various causes. In 1995, she co-founded the non-profit organization, The Actor’s Fund’s Phyllis Newman Women’s Health Initiative, which aimed to provide essential healthcare services for women in the entertainment industry. Najimy was inspired to start this organization after seeing her friend and colleague Phyllis Newman battle breast cancer.

Najimy is also an advocate and fundraiser for the LGBTQ+ community. She worked with AIDS Project Los Angeles in the mid-’80s, during the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Najimy collaborated with other activists such as Jim Fouratt, Keith Haring, and Tim Miller, who all played important roles in the fight against the disease. Najimy remains involved in activism to this day, and she has been an outspoken supporter of same-sex marriage, LGBTQ+ rights, and HIV/AIDS research.

Another cause that’s close to Najimy’s heart is animal rights. She has been a vegan for over 30 years and is a proud supporter of farm animal sanctuaries, such as Farm Sanctuary and The Gentle Barn. Najimy’s passion for animal welfare is reflected in her video series, “Kathy’s Animals,” where she showcases animals in need of homes from various shelters across the United States.

Najimy’s activism work has also extended to politics. She has been a vocal supporter of women in politics, and she campaigned for then-presidential candidate Hillary Clinton in 2016. Najimy has said that “I believe in voting with your conscience, voting for the best of who will represent your ideals,” and she encourages citizens to engage in political activism, as well.

In 2019, Najimy made her directorial debut with the film “Dumplin'” on Netflix. The film is an adaptation of Julie Murphy’s book, in which an overweight, plus-size teenager decides to join a beauty pageant held by her former beauty queen mother. The “Dumplin'” film is a moving tribute to body positivity, self-love, and female empowerment, and Najimy’s direction has been lauded as a fresh take on the coming-of-age genre.

In conclusion, Kathy Najimy is a true inspiration, a multi-talented performer, and a committed activist. She has used her talents and achievements as an actress to shine a light on issues that should matter to everyone. Najimy once said, “I want to influence people in a positive way. And that’s not always the easiest thing to do, but I’m going to try.” She has indeed made her mark and inspired many to do the same.