After a decade playing the unforgettable matriarch Beverly Goldberg on the hit sitcom The Goldbergs, it's no surprise that Wendi McLendon-Covey feels nostalgic about the '80s-set comedy. "I recently binge-watched the entire series from start to finish because I missed everyone so much," she shares with Closer. "I’m incredibly proud of the show we created. Sure, Beverly might have been a bit of a smothering mom, but isn’t that just what good parenting looks like? A mother who’s overbearing but well-meaning, acting first and apologizing later—it’s a universal experience."
At 54, Wendi is gearing up for a fresh challenge this fall with St. Denis Medical, a mockumentary-style sitcom that dives into the chaotic world of underfunded Oregon hospital workers. This new role promises to showcase her sharp wit and comedic timing in a whole new light.
Wendi’s Unlikely Path to Stardom
Wendi, you grew up in Southern California, but you were the first in your family to venture into the entertainment world, right?
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“Absolutely. My family was completely flabbergasted—and let’s be honest, a little horrified—that I wanted to pursue acting. But I knew from a very young age that this was my calling. When it came time to declare my college major, I boldly announced, ‘I think you know I want to major in theater.’ My parents were quick to respond, ‘No way. We’re not paying for that. What on earth will you do with that degree?’”
That must have been tough to hear.
“It was, but looking back, everything worked out exactly as it was meant to. After 25 years, my parents have finally come around and accepted my career choice. Funny how life unfolds, isn’t it?”
Breaking into Comedy with the Groundlings
You got your start in comedy with the legendary Groundlings troupe. What was that experience like?
“Oh, it was an absolute dream come true. I was around 27 years old, and the company at that time included heavyweights like Jennifer Coolidge, Mindy Sterling, Ana Gasteyer, and Cheri Oteri. I remember thinking, if I could ever achieve even a fraction of what they were doing, I’d feel like the biggest superhero on the planet. It was a masterclass in comedy, and I soaked up every moment like a sponge.”
What was your big break?
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“Well, until 2013, I had a side gig editing a social work journal at California State University Long Beach. It was perfect because it allowed me to work remotely and have flexible hours. But when I landed the role on The Goldbergs, I knew it was time to hang up that hat and focus fully on acting.”
Did you juggle your side job while working on Reno 911! and Bridesmaids?
“Yes, indeed. Those gigs didn’t exactly pay the bills, so I had to keep my day job going. But hey, sacrifices are part of the game, right?”
How Wendi Got Her Big Break in Bridesmaids
So, how did you land the role in Bridesmaids?
“The writers of the film, Annie Mumolo and Kristen Wiig, were both Groundlings alum, so I was lucky enough to participate in a table read for the movie back in 2007. Fast forward three years, and I got a call inviting me to audition. When I walked into the room, it was packed with famous faces. Talk about intimidating! But somehow, I managed to hold my own, and the rest, as they say, is history.”
That must have been a rewarding experience.
“Absolutely. Spending that summer in 2010 working on Bridesmaids was a blast. No one expected it to be a massive hit, so we just had fun making it. And here we are, 14 years later, still talking about it. That’s the beauty of creating something truly special.”
Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Actors
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would you say?
“I’d tell myself, ‘Wendi, nothing in life has happened for you the normal way, so stop expecting it to. It’s okay to take the unconventional route. Some people walk through the front door, while others climb in through the window, chimney, or air-conditioning duct. That’s just who you are, and it’s perfectly fine. In fact, it’s better and more fun.’”
What was it like playing Beverly Goldberg on The Goldbergs?
“It was an absolute blast because, in real life, I’m not a mom. Plus, I got to relive the ‘80s
