Anjelah Johnson proves she’s “Not So Fancy” in her new Netflix special

Anjelah Johnson, who is of Mexican and Native American descent, was born and raised in San Jose, California with four siblings and a large, close-knit family. Her upbringing has created hilarious content for jokes and a career in the stand-up scene. The comedian was even named Rookie of the Year once during her time with the Oakland Raiders and performed at Super Bowl XXXVII, but as a cheerleader not a comedian, or football player for that matter.

Putting down her pom-poms, Johnson hit the road for Los Angeles to pursue acting. She joined the ranks of internet sensations with her viral video, “Nail Salon”, which is incredibly spot on for anyone who has gotten a mani/pedi in their lifetime. A series’ regular spot on MADtv was offered to Johnson the same year and that’s where she created her second sensation, a character named Bon Qui Qui. As the abrupt fast-food employee who lacks the ability to think before she speaks, Johnson released songs and music videos, eventually signing a deal with Warner Brothers for a full length album as Bon Qui Qui called Gold Plated Dreams. She also earned an ALMA nomination in 2008 for Outstanding Female Performance in a Comedy Television Series for her work on MADtv.

Johnson’s years of experience in the comedy scene makes it a breeze for her to imitate all walks of life and everything in her environment. Between her work on MADtv, cheerleading as an Oakland Raiderette, commercial spots for a variety of brands, movies, voice overs, and even becoming a spokesperson for the Texas chain Taco Cabana, Anjelah Johnson certainly has more than enough jokes to fill a comedy special. Three specials, actually. Not Fancy is her new 90-minute follow up to 2013’s The Homecoming Show and 2009’s That’s How We Do It.

Not Fancy was filmed at the City National Grove in Anaheim, California. Johnson talks about touring and prepping for her trip to Europe, her teen-inspired wardrobe (and jewelry collection), marriage and of course her family. The special was directed by Jay Karas who has worked on a long list of scripted series such as Parks and Recreation and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and stand-up specials for top-notch comedians like Tig Notaro, Bob Saget, Jim Gaffigan, Jeffrey Ross and many more.

If watching Not Fancy on Netflix isn’t enough, Johnson is currently on tour. Catch her live as she makes her way through the US between now and November.