Martha Kelly

Biography

Martha Kelly is an American stand-up comedian and actress who turned a decades-long career in underground comedy into mainstream success through her signature deadpan delivery and monotone voice. Born on February 24, 1968, in Torrance, California, Kelly spent years performing in the comedy circuits of Los Angeles and Austin, Texas. Her comedic style—characterized by a low-energy, highly observational approach—earned her early accolades, including winning Comedy Central’s "Laugh Riots" in 2002. Despite her talent, Kelly didn’t transition into acting until her late 40s. Her big break came in 2016 when her long-time friend, Zach Galifianakis, asked her to co-star in the FX series Baskets. Playing a dry, unassuming insurance agent, she became a fan favorite and proved her unique timing worked perfectly on screen. This led to a diverse range of roles, including appearances in Spider-Man: Homecoming and Marriage Story. Her most transformative role came in 2022 as Laurie, the soft-spoken but terrifying drug lord in HBO's Euphoria. The performance earned her an Emmy nomination and showcased her ability to use her quiet demeanor to create genuine menace. Kelly has remained a staple in high-profile projects, recently appearing in the 2024 series Fallout and voicing the lead character in Netflix's Carol & the End of the World. Off-screen, she is known for her candidness regarding her sobriety and her journey navigating the entertainment industry later in life.

Known For

Social & Reach