Wanda Sykes (born March 7, 1964), also known as Wanda Sykes-Hall or Adriana Bedoya, is an American stand-up comedian and actress. She was born in Portsmouth, Virginia and is a graduate of Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia. Sykes is known for her blunt observations on current events, the difference between the sexes and races, and life in general. Much of her humor comes from her delivery, and timing. ...show more

Wanda Sykes (born March 7, 1964), also known as Wanda Sykes-Hall or Adriana Bedoya, is an American stand-up comedian and actress. She was born in Portsmouth, Virginia and is a graduate of Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia. Sykes is known for her blunt observations on current events, the difference between the sexes and races, and life in general. Much of her humor comes from her delivery, and timing.

An example of her humor is her comparison between white-collar corporate thieves and muggers in bad neighborhoods: "You get mugged, you might lose what you got on that DAY. But I ain't never been mugged of my FUTURE." Sykes began her standup career in 1987 when she entered a Washington D.C.-area talent competition. Although she lost, she discovered her passion for comedy. She continued to hone her talents at local venues while working as a procurement officer at the National Security Agency (NSA).

In 1992 she left NSA and moved to New York. Her first big break came when she opened for Chris Rock at Caroline's Comedy Club. In 1997 she joined the writing team on The Chris Rock Show. The writing team was nominated for four Emmys -- they won one in 1999. ...show less