Nasim Pedrad: Her Best Movies & TV Shows, Including New Girl

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving into the amazing career of Nasim Pedrad. You probably know and love her from her hilarious roles on Saturday Night Live and, of course, as Aly Nelson in New Girl. But there's so much more to discover about this talented actress and comedian. So, let’s explore some of her best movies and TV shows, highlighting why she’s become such a beloved figure in comedy.

Nasim Pedrad's Rise to Fame

Before we get into specific titles, let's talk about Nasim's journey. Born in Tehran, Iran, she moved to the United States at a young age. Her passion for performing led her to UCLA, where she was part of the Sunday Company at the Groundlings, a famous improv and sketch comedy school. This is where many comedy legends got their start, and it was the perfect training ground for Nasim. Her early work included various one-woman shows, which showcased her incredible range and comedic timing.

Nasim's big break came when she joined Saturday Night Live in 2009. During her time on SNL, she created memorable characters and delivered spot-on impersonations of celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Ariana Grande, and Barbara Walters. Her ability to morph into different personas and nail the comedic timing made her a standout cast member. SNL provided her with a national platform and opened doors to numerous other opportunities in television and film. Her transition from SNL to other projects was seamless, proving her versatility and solidifying her place in the entertainment industry. After SNL, she continued to impress audiences with her work on various TV shows and movies, showcasing her diverse talents and comedic brilliance.

Saturday Night Live (2009-2014)

Okay, so we have to start with Saturday Night Live. Nasim Pedrad joined the cast in 2009, and she quickly became a fan favorite. Her impressions were always on point, and she created some truly unforgettable original characters. Think about her impersonations of Kim Kardashian, where she perfectly captured Kim's mannerisms and voice, making every sketch hilarious. Or her take on Ariana Grande, which was both funny and endearing. But it wasn't just the impressions; Nasim also brought her unique characters to life, showcasing her talent for physical comedy and witty writing. Her ability to fully commit to each role, whether it was a celebrity impression or an original character, made her a standout performer on SNL. Her comedic timing, combined with her knack for physical comedy, consistently delivered memorable and laugh-out-loud moments.

One of the best things about Nasim on SNL was her fearlessness. She wasn't afraid to go big and be bold, which often led to some of the show's most memorable moments. Whether she was doing a physical gag or delivering a cutting one-liner, she always gave it her all. SNL was the perfect stage for Nasim to showcase her talents and develop her comedic voice, setting the stage for her future success in Hollywood. Saturday Night Live not only honed her skills but also provided her with invaluable experience in sketch comedy, live performance, and working under pressure. It's no wonder she's become such a sought-after talent in the entertainment industry.

Nasim Pedrad in New Girl

Let's dive into one of her most beloved roles: Aly Nelson in New Girl. Nasim joined the cast in season four, and she quickly became an integral part of the show. Aly is Cece's best friend and a police officer, and her no-nonsense attitude and dry wit perfectly complement the rest of the gang's quirky personalities. Her character brought a fresh dynamic to the show, offering a grounded and often hilarious perspective amidst the group's antics. Aly's interactions with the other characters, especially her budding romance with Winston, provided some of the show's most memorable and heartwarming moments.

New Girl (2015-2018)

New Girl wouldn't be the same without Aly Nelson, played by Nasim Pedrad. She brought a unique energy to the show. Aly's relationship with Winston, played by Lamorne Morris, is one of the highlights of the series. Their romance starts off as a hilarious back-and-forth, with Aly initially unimpressed by Winston's quirky personality. But as they spend more time together, they develop a genuine connection, leading to some of the show's sweetest and funniest moments. The evolution of their relationship, from initial disdain to deep affection, is a testament to both actors' comedic timing and their ability to create believable characters. Their scenes together are often filled with witty banter and heartwarming moments, making them a fan-favorite couple.

Beyond her romantic storyline, Aly also shines in her interactions with the rest of the New Girl gang. Her friendship with Cece, in particular, is a highlight, as they provide each other with support and comedic relief. Aly's no-nonsense attitude often clashes with the group's more eccentric personalities, leading to hilarious situations. However, she always has their backs, showing her loyalty and affection for her friends. Whether she's offering sage advice or participating in their crazy schemes, Aly is an essential part of the New Girl family. Nasim Pedrad's portrayal of Aly Nelson is a perfect example of her comedic talent and her ability to bring depth and humor to any role. She seamlessly integrated into the cast and became a beloved character, contributing to the show's overall charm and appeal.

Other Notable Roles

Aside from SNL and New Girl, Nasim has an impressive list of other roles. Let's take a peek!

Despicable Me 2 (2013)

In Despicable Me 2, Nasim lent her voice to the character Jillian, Gru's overly enthusiastic neighbor who is constantly trying to set him up on dates. Jillian's relentless optimism and awkward attempts at matchmaking provide some of the film's funniest moments. Nasim's voice acting perfectly captures Jillian's bubbly personality and adds to the overall humor of the movie. While it's a smaller role, it showcases Nasim's versatility and her ability to bring even minor characters to life with her comedic talent. Her performance adds to the charm and humor of the film, making Jillian a memorable character in the Despicable Me franchise.

Mulan (2020)

In the live-action Mulan, Nasim Pedrad took on a different kind of role, playing a matchmaker. Although her screen time was limited, she brought a comedic touch to the film, providing some much-needed levity in the more serious moments. Her portrayal of the matchmaker was both funny and endearing, adding to the overall charm of the movie. While the film received mixed reviews, Nasim's performance was generally praised for her ability to bring humor and warmth to the character. It was a departure from her more well-known comedic roles, but she proved that she could excel in different types of roles as well. Her presence in Mulan added a unique dynamic to the film, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Chad (2021-2022)

Chad is a comedy series created by and starring Nasim Pedrad. She plays Chad, a 14-year-old Persian boy navigating the challenges of high school. The show is a hilarious and often cringeworthy look at adolescence, exploring themes of identity, acceptance, and the awkwardness of growing up. Nasim's portrayal of Chad is both funny and surprisingly relatable, capturing the essence of teenage angst and the desire to fit in. The series has been praised for its unique perspective and its willingness to tackle complex issues with humor and heart. Chad is a testament to Nasim's talent as a writer, actress, and creator, showcasing her ability to bring fresh and original stories to the screen. It's a must-watch for anyone who enjoys coming-of-age comedies with a unique twist.

Why Nasim Pedrad Stands Out

Nasim Pedrad's success in comedy comes from her unique blend of talent, hard work, and versatility. She's not just a comedian; she's an actress, a writer, and a creator. Her ability to seamlessly transition between different roles and mediums is a testament to her dedication and skill. Whether she's doing impressions on SNL, bringing a grounded perspective to New Girl, or creating her own show, Chad, she always delivers. Her performances are characterized by her impeccable comedic timing, her ability to fully commit to each character, and her willingness to take risks. She's not afraid to be silly, awkward, or even a little bit outrageous, which is what makes her so endearing to audiences. She brings a unique perspective to every project she works on, and she consistently delivers memorable and hilarious performances.

Her journey from the Groundlings to Saturday Night Live to starring in her own show is an inspiration to aspiring comedians and actors everywhere. She's a role model for anyone who dreams of making it in the entertainment industry, proving that with talent, hard work, and determination, anything is possible. Nasim Pedrad is a true comedic force, and we can't wait to see what she does next. Her ability to connect with audiences on a personal level, combined with her undeniable talent, ensures that she will continue to be a prominent figure in comedy for years to come. She is not just a performer; she is an artist who brings joy and laughter to countless people around the world.

So, there you have it – a look at some of Nasim Pedrad's best work. From her hilarious characters on Saturday Night Live to her memorable role as Aly on New Girl, she has consistently proven herself to be one of the funniest and most talented actresses in Hollywood. Keep an eye out for her future projects; we're sure they'll be just as amazing!