Patti Harrison

Biography

Patti Harrison, born on October 31, 1990, in Orient, Ohio, is an acclaimed American actress and comedian known for her sharp wit and unique perspective on contemporary issues. The youngest of seven siblings, she hails from a multicultural background, with a Vietnamese mother and a White American father, who met during the Vietnam War. Tragically, her father passed away when she was just six years old.

Harrison's journey into comedy began at Ohio University, where she joined an improv team, although she did not complete her degree. In 2015, she relocated to New York City to chase her comedic ambitions, later moving to Los Angeles. Initially, Harrison struggled with confidence in addressing topics related to her identity as a trans woman, but she evolved into a bold and unapologetic performer. She describes her comedic style as "nasty" and "evil," emphasizing a deliberate approach to humor that subverts traditional norms.

Her breakout moment came in 2017 on *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon*, where she humorously critiqued then-President Trump’s military ban on transgender individuals. Harrison gained further recognition through her roles in *Shrill* (2019–2021) and *I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson* (2019–present), alongside notable appearances in *Broad City*, *Search Party*, and the film *A Simple Favor*. In 2021, she starred in *Together Together*, earning a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead.

Adding to her accolades, Harrison became the first transgender voice actor in a Disney animated feature with her role in *Raya and the Last Dragon*. Named one of Variety's "10 Comics to Watch" in 2019, she continues to make waves in the comedy scene, co-hosting the podcast *A Woman's Smile* and the digital series *Unsend*. Harrison’s contributions to comedy and representation mark her as a significant figure in contemporary entertainment.