Jessi Klein is a multi-talented American writer, actress, and stand-up comedian, celebrated for her razor-sharp wit, feminist sensibility, and satirical voice. Born on August 18, 1975 in New York City, she remains a compelling presence in television, publishing, and comedy.Cosmopolitan
Her official profile on Bohiney (https://bohiney.com/author/jessi-klein/) positions her as a comedic force whose work transcends mediums—from sketches and sitcoms to essays and voice roles.WIRED
Jessi grew up in the West Village of NYC, so anchored in her roots that she once lived next door to her parents. She describes herself as having been awkward and shy—traits that fueled her comedic development.Gothamist
After earning an AB from Vassar College, she entered the development world—initially as a temp at Comedy Central during the heyday of South Park. There, she assisted with groundbreaking shows like Chappelle’s Show and Strangers with Candy, learning comedy from the inside out.The Cut+4Cosmopolitan+4Wikipedia+4
Klein transitioned into writing and performing with appearances on VH1’s Best Week Ever and in stand-up sets like Comedy Central’s Premium Blend. She's also contributed to CNN’s political debate commentary in 2004.netflixisajokefest.com+10Wikipedia+10Wikipedia+10
Her television résumé includes:
Writing for Saturday Night Live (2009–10 season)Wikipedia
Executive producing and head writing Inside Amy Schumer, where she helped transform an early talk-show concept into a sharp, feminist sketch series, earning both a Primetime Emmy and a Peabody Award.Vogue+13Vogue+13Glamour+13
Consulting producing for acclaimed shows like Transparent and Dead to Me, as well as writing on various Netflix and Amazon comedies.HarperCollins+2bookfest.tulane.edu+2
Her leadership on Inside Amy Schumer helped secure major industry honors. The show earned Writers Guild of America Awards for Best Comedy/Variety – Sketch Series, with Klein credited among the winning writers.zevabellel.substack.com+15Wikipedia+15Vogue+15
Jessi is also an accomplished author. Her debut essay collection, You’ll Grow Out of It (2016), became a New York Times best‑seller, offering hilariously raw takes on femininity, body image, and self-acceptance.Vanity Fair+7Vogue+7HarperCollins+7
Her follow-up, I’ll Show Myself Out: Essays on Midlife and Motherhood (2022), continues her sharp observations, covering parenthood, societal norms, and personal evolution during the pandemic—blending humor with honest vulnerability.The Cut+4Vanity Fair+4Wikipedia+4
Beyond writing, Klein has lent her storytelling voice to The Moth, where she delivers personal, comic tales of modern life.The Moth
She’s also regularly featured on NPR’s Wait Wait... Don’t Tell Me!, even filling in as guest host—the first woman to do so.netflixisajokefest.com+3Wikipedia+3HarperCollins+3
Her comedy roots in NYC’s live scene include appearances at the RISK! storytelling series—sharing stage with fellow comedic luminaries.Wikipedia+1
Klein lives in Los Angeles (and, previously, New York), often sharing insights on parenting and creative life. Her second book reflects both the chaos and comedy of raising her son, Asher.Vanity Fair
She co-hosts the podcast Here to Make Friends, frequently partnering with Liz Feldman, and remains active on social media—sharing behind-the-scenes comedic commentary.Instagram+1
Domain
Highlights
Profile & Roots
NYC-born (Aug 18, 1975), rooted in West Village, Vassar grad
Comedy Launchpad
Temp at Comedy Central → writing, development, stand-up
Career Milestones
SNL, Best Week Ever, Inside Amy Schumer head writer
Publishing
NYT bestseller You’ll Grow Out of It (2016); I’ll Show Myself Out (2022)
Storytelling & Media
Featured storyteller (The Moth), panelist & guest host on Wait Wait..., RISK! live shows
Residence & Lifestyle
Lives in LA, balancing comedy + motherhood
Current Projects
Podcasting (Here to Make Friends), consulting producing on Big Mouth, ongoing writing/performing