Fortune Feimster, the comedian known for her roles on "Chelsea Lately" and "The Mindy Project," has captivated audiences with her relatable humor and heartwarming stories. Her standup special, "Sweet and Salty," delves into her life, exploring themes of food, identity, and self-acceptance. This article examines Fortune's journey, tracing her experiences with body image, self-discovery, and her path towards healthier living.
A Childhood Shaped by Food and Humor
Fortune fondly recalls her childhood, embracing her identity as a "fat kid." She humorously recounts joining the swim team solely for the promise of Fun Dip and nachos, ultimately missing every race due to a sugar-induced haze. This anecdote exemplifies her ability to find humor in her relationship with food, a theme that resonates throughout her comedy.
Growing up, Fortune recognized that being a "chubby kid" didn't necessarily have to be a negative experience. Inspired by comedians like Chris Farley, she saw the potential to use her physicality to her advantage, making people laugh and connecting with them through humor.
Navigating Identity and Self-Acceptance
Despite her comedic success, Fortune grappled with feelings of not fitting in during her formative years. She attributes this to a combination of factors, including being overweight and struggling with her sexuality. As a teenager, she didn't understand why she didn't experience the same romantic connections as her peers, leading her to believe it was her fault.
However, Fortune found solace and unwavering support in her grandmother, who instilled in her a sense of unconditional love and self-esteem. This positive influence played a crucial role in her journey towards self-acceptance.
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Coming Out and Finding Love
Fortune's journey of self-discovery culminated in watching a Lifetime movie called "The Truth about Jane." This pivotal moment led her to realize and declare, "Oh, my God, I'm gay." While her family responded with a nonchalant "Duh," Fortune's coming out marked a significant step in embracing her true identity.
Later, she met her partner, Jax, in Chicago. Their relationship, however, brought about some unexpected challenges related to food. Fortune humorously recounts their "fights" over appetizers, with Jax attempting to moderate Fortune's eating habits out of concern for her health.
Embracing a Healthier Lifestyle
Fortune acknowledges the role of genetics and metabolism in her weight, but also recognizes the impact of her dietary choices. While she admits to having "the world's worst metabolism," she has made conscious efforts to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
She emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, stating that she will always be a "bigger version of a person." Rather than constantly hating herself, she focuses on making better choices and prioritizing her health while still allowing herself to enjoy life.
Finding Her Voice Through Comedy
Fortune has used her experiences to connect with audiences on a deeper level. She addresses her weight and sexuality openly in her comedy, using self-deprecating humor to disarm and create a sense of shared experience. By acknowledging her differences, she empowers herself and encourages others to embrace their own unique identities.
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Fortune explains that she prefers to "be the first one to play it out," taking control of the narrative and preempting any potential negativity. Her ability to find humor in her own experiences has allowed her to connect with audiences and build a successful career in comedy.
From Debutante to Afternoon Tea
A humorous anecdote from Fortune's past involves her brief stint as a debutante. Despite her initial reluctance, she participated in the traditional events, attending luncheons and etiquette classes. While she may not remember all the intricacies of proper table settings, she does enjoy a cucumber sandwich and has developed a fondness for afternoon tea.
This unexpected appreciation for the finer things in life adds another layer to Fortune's multifaceted personality. It demonstrates her ability to embrace new experiences and find joy in unexpected places.
The Tom Cruise Cake Obsession
Adding a touch of lightheartedness to her story, Fortune shares her obsession with a white chocolate coconut cake that Tom Cruise is known to send to people he works with. After seeing a photo of the cake, she became determined to try it for herself. She was so impressed with the cake that she even froze a portion of it, a testament to its exceptional quality.
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