Introduction
Shirley Hemphill was an American comedian and actress who left an indelible mark on television comedy during the 1970s and 1980s. Best known for her role as the sharp-tongued waitress Shirley Wilson on the popular sitcoms “What’s Happening!!” and its sequel “What’s Happening Now!!”, Hemphill’s distinctive voice and impeccable comedic timing made her a beloved figure in entertainment history.
| Full Name | Shirley Hemphill |
|---|---|
| Profession | Comedian, Actress |
| Birth Date | July 1, 1947 |
| Death Date | December 10, 1999 |
| Age at Death | 52 |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Birthplace | Asheville, North Carolina |
| Nationality | American |
| Net Worth at Death | Approximately $1 million (estimated) |
| Years Active | 1970s-1990s |
Early Life & Background
Shirley Hemphill was born on July 1, 1947, in Asheville, North Carolina, to parents Richard and Mozella Hemphill. She grew up alongside her brother William in what was likely a modest household during a time of significant racial segregation in the American South.
Before pursuing entertainment, Shirley worked in a factory manufacturing nylons in Asheville. This working-class background would later inform her comedy, which often featured straightforward, no-nonsense perspectives. Details about her formal education remain limited in public records, though her natural wit and timing suggested innate talent that would later define her career.
Career Journey
Shirley’s journey to comedic success began when she moved to Los Angeles to pursue stand-up comedy. Her bold, distinctive style caught attention in comedy clubs, eventually leading to a career-defining appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.” This high-profile platform significantly boosted her visibility in the entertainment industry.
Her breakthrough came in 1976 when she was cast as Shirley Wilson, the sassy waitress at Rob’s Place, in the ABC sitcom “What’s Happening!!” The show ran for three successful seasons until 1979, with Hemphill becoming a fan favorite for her witty one-liners and comedic timing.
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Following the initial success, Shirley reprised her role in the sequel series “What’s Happening Now!!” which aired from 1985 to 1988. Between these major roles, she starred in her own short-lived sitcom “One in a Million,” demonstrating her ability to carry a show as the lead.
Throughout her career, Shirley maintained her stand-up roots, performing her comedy routines on various television programs including “A&E’s An Evening at the Improv.” Later in her career, she made guest appearances on shows like “The Wayans Brothers,” showcasing her enduring appeal across different eras of television comedy.
Personal Life
Shirley Hemphill maintained a relatively private personal life despite her public career. Born to Richard and Mozella Hemphill, she had at least one sibling, her brother William. While she never publicly discussed marriage or children, she maintained close connections with her family and comedy colleagues.
Unlike many celebrities, Shirley kept details about her romantic relationships largely out of the public eye, choosing instead to focus public attention on her professional work rather than her private affairs. This discretion was somewhat unusual for the era but reflected her focus on career over cultivating a tabloid presence.
Net Worth & Financial Success
While precise financial details were not widely reported during her lifetime, estimates suggest Shirley Hemphill’s net worth was approximately $1 million at the time of her death in 1999. Her income primarily derived from:
- Television salaries from her regular roles in sitcoms
- Guest appearances on various shows
- Stand-up comedy performances at venues across the country
- Potential syndication royalties from her television work
By the standards of her era, Shirley achieved considerable financial success as an African American woman in entertainment, though perhaps not reaching the wealth level of the industry’s top earners.
Notable Facts & Trivia
- Shirley’s character on “What’s Happening!!” was known for her catchphrase “What’s happening!”
- She performed stand-up comedy on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,” a major career milestone for comedians
- Despite her success in television, she continued performing stand-up throughout her career
- She occasionally appeared on “The Wayans Brothers,” connecting her to a new generation of African American comedy
- Her distinct voice and delivery style made her instantly recognizable to television audiences
Legacy in Comedy
Shirley Hemphill’s contributions to comedy extended beyond her individual performances. As an African American woman in comedy during the 1970s and 1980s, she helped pave the way for greater diversity in the field. Her success demonstrated that audiences would embrace comedic talent regardless of race or gender, challenging industry assumptions about marketability.
Her character on “What’s Happening!!” presented a strong, independent woman who relied on wit rather than physical comedy or stereotypes, offering a refreshing alternative to many portrayals of the era.
Later Career and Life
After the conclusion of “What’s Happening Now!!” in 1988, Shirley continued working in television with guest appearances and comedy performances. While her star power gradually diminished from its peak in the late 1970s, she maintained a presence in the entertainment industry until her untimely death.
Shirley Hemphill passed away on December 10, 1999, at the age of 52, reportedly from kidney failure. Her death marked the loss of a pioneering voice in American comedy.
FAQ
When did Shirley Hemphill pass away? Shirley Hemphill passed away on December 10, 1999, at the age of 52.
What was Shirley Hemphill’s most famous role? She was best known for playing Shirley Wilson on “What’s Happening!!” and “What’s Happening Now!!”.
Where was Shirley Hemphill born? She was born in Asheville, North Carolina.
Did Shirley Hemphill have her own show? Yes, she starred in a short-lived sitcom called “One in a Million.”
What did Shirley Hemphill do before becoming famous? She worked in a factory manufacturing nylons in Asheville, North Carolina, before pursuing her comedy career.