Thea Vidale

Thea R. Vidale, born on November 20, 1956, is an American stand-up comedian and actress. She is best known for her role as Thea Armstrong-Turrell in the ABC sitcom Thea, which aired from 1993 to 1994. Vidale holds the distinction of being the first African American female comedian to have a television series named after her. Born in Washington, D.C., Vidale grew up in a military family and moved frequently. She settled in Victoria, Texas, and graduated from Victoria High School. After working as a waitress, she pursued a career in comedy. Vidale began performing at amateur stand-up comedy nights in Houston, eventually gaining recognition in comedy clubs across the country. She appeared in the HBO cable comedy special Rodney Dangerfield: Opening Night at Rodney's Place in 1989.