Maggie Wheeler ("Janice from Friends", Seinfeld, Curb)

Maggie Wheeler, beloved for her iconic role as Janice on Friends and her memorable appearances on Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and other classic TV shows, shares a rich, candid journey through her decades-long career in comedy and acting. From her early days in New York City, raised by an art-collector mother and a stock exchange trader father who discouraged her acting dreams, to her formative training with Anna Devere Smith and her breakthrough on the short-lived but legendary sketch comedy series The New Show, Maggie recounts how serendipity and persistence shaped her path. She reflects on pivotal roles—from voicing characters in Silverhawks and other Rankin Bass cartoons to her standout performances in New Year's Day, a film that launched David Duchovny’s career, and her unforgettable guest spots on Seinfeld and Curb, where her improvisational flair and signature laugh became cultural touchstones. Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and joy, marked by both triumphs and setbacks, including being fired from regular roles on Ellen and Suddenly Susan, yet always finding new doors through bold choices and authentic performances. Wheeler’s insights reveal a deep love for character-driven comedy, the power of improvisation, and the magic of surprise in storytelling—especially in her beloved Friends episodes where Janice’s sudden appearances electrified audiences. She also shares personal anecdotes about Studio 54, her work with legends like Larry David and David Duchovny, and her playful, self-directed casting for The Parent Trap, where she reimagined the role with a quirky, non-traditional voice. Her work on Bob’s Burgers, where she voiced both mother and daughter in a single episode, exemplifies her range and joy in animation. Ultimately, this conversation is a heartfelt celebration of a career built on authenticity, humor, and the quiet strength of showing up, again and again, with heart.