Janelle James is a dynamic comedian whose sharp wit and engaging presence have garnered significant attention in the world of comedy. Known for her scene-stealing role as 'Ava' on the hit ABC series, "Abbott Elementary," Janelle has captured the hearts of audiences with her infectious humor and remarkable talent. In addition to her success on television, Janelle's comedic prowess has been showcased in her latest half-hour stand-up special on Netflix's "The Stand Ups." Her versatility extends beyond performing, as she has contributed both as a writer and actor to projects like Showtime's "Black Monday" and Apple's animated series "Central Park." Janelle has toured with comedy legends such as Chris Rock, Amy Schumer, and David Cross, marking her as a prominent figure on the stand-up comedy circuit. Her leadership and vision were highlighted when she took over the Eugene Mirman Comedy Festival in Brooklyn, an event now aptly renamed The Janelle James Comedy Festival. Early in her career, Janelle was recognized as a "New Face" at the Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal, an accolade that identified her as a rising star in comedy. She has since been named one of The 50 Most Funny People in Brooklyn and featured in Variety's Top Ten Comedians to Watch, further solidifying her status as a comedic force. Her debut comedy album, "Black and Mild," was released in 2017 and received widespread acclaim across major streaming platforms. Expanding her reach into the podcast world, Janelle's podcast "You In Danger Gurl" was listed among Spotify's top comedy podcasts for 2020, showcasing her ability to connect with listeners through her unique humor and perspective.