Most artists confine themselves to their comfort zone. But, of course, Jenny Slate operates on a different plane of existence. Want live-action? You got it. How about animation? Easy peasy. Sketch comedy AND drama? Well, let’s hold our horses there and just list the limited skills she apparently lacks (how to execute a successful two-minute drill? Solving world hunger?).
Over 18 years, Slate has evolved in ways most of us can only dream of. Whether she’s giving us the giggles as the “wooooorst” twin sister in Pawnee, Indiana, or tugging at our heartstrings as a shell with shoes (seriously, who doesn’t love a well-dressed mollusk?), her contribution is always a plus. Seriously—someone stop her before we run out of compliments!
Now, let’s explore some prime examples of her spectacular talents that leave us yawning in awe…
13 ‘Saturday Night Live’
Slate’s debut on the illustrious SNL stage lasted a mere season, but it was enough to catapult her into the limelight.
Her most notable contribution? Oh, just casually making history by being the fifth cast member to drop an F-bomb live on camera. Charming and adorable, right?
Despite the rumors swirling around like receipts after a shopping spree, Slate has claimed it wasn’t actually the reason for her departure. She probably just needed to find a new stage for her boundless genius.
12 ‘Lady Dynamite’
In Netflix’s tragically short-lived show, Slate took on the role of Karen Grisham, the “life coach” to comedian Maria Bamford. No, she didn’t come with a user manual.
Her nonchalant delivery of soul-crushing advice is so perfect it might as well be packaged and sold as a self-help book—minus the required level of listening skills.
11 ‘Zootopia’
In 2016, Slate’s hot streak continued with voice roles, including a fluffy white Pomeranian and Assistant Mayor Bellwether in Zootopia. Talk about a busy “floof period.”
Her sheep character is deceptively simple at first, slowly revealing its trademark confusion and sheer cunning in the larger plot. Genius strategy, obviously.
10 ‘Kroll Show’
In the hilarious PubLIZity sketches alongside her buddy Nick Kroll, Slate reminded us why collaboration can yield some deliciously ridiculous results.
9 ‘Bob’s Burgers’
For 13 glorious seasons (including the movie, because why not?), Slate voiced Tammy Larson, the quintessential spoiled brat with a flair for dramatic farting.
8 ‘The Great North’
Once again collaborating with the Bob’s Burgers team, Slate’s voice role as Judy brought in an imaginary friend with wisdom, none other than Alanis Morissette. Just sit with that for a moment.
7 ‘Obvious Child’
Slate’s leading role in this rom-com grounded a rather earnest tale about abortion and life choices, which happens to be a bit of a buzzkill…until Slate comes in with her charm.
6 ‘The Lego Batman Movie’
In a crowded animated field of villains, Slate managed to deliver a surprising performance as Harley Quinn. Her portrayal had us going, “Wait, who was that again?”—and then promptly rushed to IMDb.
5 ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’
In a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it role as Debbie the Dog Mom, Slate found catharsis during a fight scene that must have undone all the stress of barking as a Pomeranian for not one, but two movies. Overachiever much?
4 ‘Drunk History’
Slate, after indulging in a drink or two (because let’s be honest: it’s not called Sober History), gave us an amusing yet bizarre medical update about her dog’s privates followed by a science story. Cheers to being entertaining!
3 ‘Stage Fright’
In what could resemble a monologue for budding comedians, Slate’s Netflix special fused her life and family stories into hilarity that was surprisingly touching. Surprisingly touching? Who knew that was even possible?
2 ‘Marcel the Shell With Shoes On’
From a series of YouTube shorts to an Oscar-nominated feature, Marcel—the adorable anthropomorphic seashell with shoes—was co-created by Slate with her then-partner, Dean Fleischer-Camp. Talk about a signature impact!
1 ‘Parks and Recreation’
Last but not least, in an epic case of perfect casting, Slate played Mona-Lisa Saperstein, the chaotic, klepto twin of Tom Haverford’s sidekick Jean-Ralphio. Only a true master could match the unhinged energy of Ben Schwartz.
Painting chaos with ease, it’s hard to believe they weren’t plotting world domination since the day they were born. But who needs world peace when you can bring laughter instead?
