Rita Rudner

Rita Rudner (born September 17, 1953) is an American comedian known for her stand-up comedy and television appearances. She started her career as a Broadway dancer before transitioning to comedy. Rudner gained recognition in the 1980s comedy boom and became one of the premier comics of that era. Her talent and wit led to numerous appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and several HBO specials. Born and raised in Miami, Florida, Rudner grew up in a Jewish family and began taking ballet lessons at a young age. After graduating from high school, she moved to New York City to pursue her dream of becoming a dancer.