Nicole Parker


Nicole Frances Parker is an American actress, comedian, writer, singer, and podcaster. She is best known for her work on Fox's sketch comedy show Mad TV. In July 2009, she concluded her run as Elphaba in the Broadway production of Wicked, a role that she reprised on tour across North America. Since 2017, Parker has voiced Penelope Pitstop in the Wacky Races animated series. She has also appeared in the parody films Meet the Spartans and Disaster Movie. She currently cohosts the Earwolf podcast "The Neighborhood Listen" along with comedian Paul F. Tompkins.

Early life

In her hometown of Irvine, California, she performed at South Coast Repertory and Laguna Playhouse. She also studied Theatre and Voice at Indiana University and performed in an improv troupe called Full Frontal Comedy. After college, Parker performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the Second City in Chicago, Bloemendaal, Unhinged Academy and Groningen. In addition, she and some college friends formed a theater company in New York City called Waterwell Productions. Parker moved to Amsterdam for two years, where she performed in the comedy show Boom Chicago alongside MADtv alumni Ike Barinholtz and Jordan Peele.

Career

''Mad TV''

In 2003, Parker joined the Season 9 cast of Mad TV. She was a featured performer, until Season 10, when she was promoted to cast member. Parker left the show in November 2008, but appeared in sketches until the series finale in 2009.
Parker's most notable characters include Pat-Beth LaMontrose and the Disney Girl. She also had impersonated many notable celebrities, mostly singers such as Britney Spears, Ashlee and Jessica Simpson, Julie Andrews, James Blunt, and Judy Garland.

Characters

In 2004, Parker was nominated for a Jeff Award for her performance in The People vs. Friar Laurence, The Man Who Killed Romeo and Juliet.
From July 2006 to January 2007, Parker performed in the comedy musical .
In 2009, Parker replaced Marcie Dodd in the role of Elphaba in the Broadway production of the musical Wicked, from January 16. She starred opposite Alli Mauzey as Glinda. She exited on July 19 at the end of her six-month contract, and was replaced by Dee Roscioli.
Parker starred in the new musical The People in the Picture, which began performances at Studio 54 on April 1, 2011 and officially opened on April 28, 2011.
Parker again starred as Elphaba in Wicked on the show's first North American tour. She reunited with Mauzey beginning performances in Denver, Colorado May 18, 2012. She replaced Mamie Parris. She later left the production on September 24, 2012.

The Groundlings

Parker frequently guest performs in the improvisational comedy show Cookin' With Gas at The Groundlings Theatre in Hollywood, California.

Credits

Theatre roles

Film roles

Television roles

Award wins and nominations