Let’s face it: Sherri Shepherd is a force of nature. Whether it's performing on stage, acting in TV shows, or sharing her life with millions, she’s always been someone who refuses to sit still. Even during the pandemic, this dynamic comedian found creative ways to keep the laughter alive. She took her stand-up act to parking lots, where fans sat in their cars, tuning in via radio while using hand clappers and headlights to show their appreciation. It wasn’t exactly a traditional gig, but for Sherri, it was pure magic. “Just being on that stage felt like coming home,” she told Closer.
For over three decades, Sherri has carved out a remarkable career in entertainment. At 53, she continues to thrive as both an actress and a comedian. Fans know her from her role on Netflix’s Mr. Iglesias and ABC’s Call Your Mother. But her journey hasn’t been limited to scripted performances. As a former co-host of The View and a spokesperson for HealthyWage.com, Sherri has embraced every opportunity to showcase her talents. “I love playing pretend as an actor, but I also love being myself,” she says. “How many people can say they get to do it all?”
Scroll down for Closer’s exclusive Q&A with Sherri Shepherd!
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What’s Keeping Sherri Busy During the Pandemic?
Like so many of us, Sherri used the pandemic as a chance to explore new hobbies and push herself outside her comfort zone. “I finally got around to watching Game of Thrones,” she admits. “I had no idea what everyone was talking about!” Alongside binge-watching shows, Sherri has been diving into writing—a skill she hadn’t fully explored before. “I’ve always written stand-up material, but now I’m working on projects I can pitch to networks or even bring to the big screen,” she explains. To top it off, she’s been walking several miles three times a week, something she jokes she never thought she’d do.
Focusing on Fitness and Health
Like many of us, Sherri gained a few extra pounds during quarantine. “I think I added 25 pounds to my frame,” she laughs. To tackle this, she partnered with HealthyWage.com, a platform that incentivizes weight loss by letting users bet on themselves. “It’s a six-month commitment, and it really helps create a healthier lifestyle without tying you down to one specific diet,” she shares. Her personal goal? Losing 15 pounds. “It’s all about feeling better and setting goals for myself.”
How Does HealthyWage Work?
HealthyWage offers a unique approach to weight loss by turning it into a game. Participants commit to losing a certain amount of weight over six months, and they’re rewarded with cash prizes for reaching their goals. “It’s not about restrictive diets or quick fixes,” Sherri explains. “It’s about making sustainable changes that stick.” For her, the program aligns perfectly with her desire to prioritize her health—not just for herself but for her family.
What Motivates Sherri to Stay Healthy?
At the heart of Sherri’s motivation is her 15-year-old son, Jeffrey. “I want to be around for him,” she says. “I want to run, live life, and make sure he knows his mom is there for him no matter what.” Her commitment to her son drives everything she does, whether it’s turning down opportunities to travel overseas or ensuring she stays active and healthy.
From Talent Shows to Stand-Up: Sherri’s Journey to Comedy
Growing up, Sherri always knew she wanted to make people laugh. “I was the kid dancing around the house, putting on talent shows for my family,” she recalls. “It was second nature to me. Everyone expected it, and I thrived in that environment.” Despite facing tough times early in her career—like getting evicted and living on friends’ couches—her passion for comedy never wavered. “If I couldn’t get on stage, I felt like I’d die,” she says with a laugh.
Looking Back at The View
For eight years, Sherri graced our screens as a co-host on The View. Looking back, she cherishes the connections she made with her fellow hosts, including Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, and Barbara Walters. “It was like a family,” she reflects. “We loved each other deeply, and those bonds have lasted long after the show ended.” While some moments were challenging, Sherri views them as learning experiences. “Even my biggest failures taught me something valuable,” she says.
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Competition Shows: Dancing and Singing?
Sherri’s not afraid to take risks, which is why she jumped at the chance to compete on shows like Dancing with the Stars and The Masked Singer. Both experiences pushed her out of her comfort zone, especially The Masked Singer, where she had to sing despite her self-proclaimed lack of talent. “If there’s something you fear, you should run toward it,” she advises. While dancing came more naturally to her, she credits both shows for helping her grow as an artist and a person.
Balancing Work and Motherhood
As a single mom, Sherri knows the importance of putting her son first. “Everything revolves around Jeffrey,” she says. “I’ve turned down opportunities because I can’t leave him for too long. Being there for him is my priority, and everything else will fall into place.” Her dedication to motherhood shines through in how she describes her relationship with Jeffrey. “He has this incredible dry sense of humor—he probably got it from me,” she jokes. “Watching him grow and succeed makes me so proud.”
