Born and raised in the vibrant city of San Francisco, René Hicks grew up under the watchful eye of her father, a dedicated Pentecostal preacher. Her upbringing was one of structure and discipline, and her father emphasized the importance of education. Following his guidance, René pursued a degree in business, earning her credentials and successfully passing the CPA exam. She eventually joined one of the largest accounting firms in the world, settling into a promising career as a Certified Public Accountant. However, a spontaneous detour during a night out with friends changed everything. On a dare laced with a $100 challenge and inspired by Robin Williams—one of her comedy idols who had once graced the very stage—René found herself on stage at a local comedy club. Her impromptu routine was met with uproarious laughter, sparking a newfound passion that she simply couldn't ignore. Less than a year later, René took a leave from the steady world of accounting, choosing instead to pursue the unpredictable and exhilarating path of comedy. This bold career shift was met with skepticism at home. René’s religious mother was concerned about the perception that her daughter, now performing in nightclubs, was involved in something unsavory. Yet, René was captivated; the world of comedy was calling, and she had to answer. René Hicks quickly established herself as a force in the comedy scene. Her intelligent and universally relatable humor earned her appearances at countless clubs across the United States and internationally. René’s talent and dedication were recognized when she became the first African-American woman nominated for an American Comedy Award for "Best Female Stand-up." Her television appearances include her own "Comedy Central Presents...René Hicks," as well as performances on "Premium Blend," "Politically Incorrect," "Full Frontal Comedy," and "Comedy Showcase" with Louie Anderson. She's also showcased her comedic chops on ABC's "Hangin' with Mr. Cooper" and in the film "Low Down Dirty Shame" with Keenan Ivory Wayans. A favorite on the college circuit, René has performed at over 500 college campuses nationwide, earning the National College Comedian of the Year Award twice. Transitioning from a career in accounting to one in comedy proved to be a sound decision, aligning perfectly with her sharp wit and natural comedic timing. René’s passion extends beyond comedy. During her college years, she was a nationally ranked, all-American distance runner, and her zeal for athletics is evident in her devotion as a sports fan. A dedicated follower of the San Francisco 49ers and Giants, she eagerly attends home games, even flying from Los Angeles to San Francisco to cheer them on. Wherever her comedy tours take her, René finds time to attend local sporting events, passionately discussing games and statistics with an infectious enthusiasm. "There's no sport I haven't played or know something about, except maybe Jai Alai," she quips. Despite her demanding schedule, René remains committed to fitness, participating in various sports activities whenever she can. Not one to stay sedentary for long, she carries her energetic spirit wherever she goes. Beyond her professional accomplishments, René is deeply committed to giving back to the community. She volunteers with organizations like the Special Olympics and Caring For Babies With AIDS. "I feel that God has given me so much, that it's my duty to in turn give to others," she explains, embodying a spirit of gratitude and service. No matter where her thriving career takes her, René Hicks finds her true home on stage, equipped with just a microphone and a stool. For her, stand-up comedy is the ultimate form of intimacy with an audience, a unique opportunity to bridge divides and foster connection through laughter. René believes in the unifying power of comedy, striving to bring joy to a world often divided by trivial concerns.