Moms Mabley (born Loretta Mary Aiken on March 19, 1894 – May 23, 1975) was a pioneering African-American comedian and actress. She was one of the first Black women to achieve widespread success in stand-up comedy, breaking racial and gender barriers in the entertainment industry.

🎤 Comedy Style & Legacy
Mabley was known for her raunchy, yet cleverly disguised humor, tackling topics like sex, aging, race, and politics—subjects that were considered taboo at the time. She often performed in character as a wise, grandmotherly figure with a frumpy outfit, missing teeth, and a distinctive voice, which added to her comedic persona.

🌟 Career Highlights
Vaudeville & Chitlin’ Circuit: She got her start in vaudeville and became a regular performer on the Chitlin’ Circuit, which featured Black entertainers during segregation.
Comedy Albums: Released several hit comedy albums, including The Funniest Woman Alive and Moms Mabley at the UN.
TV & Film Appearances:
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour
The Ed Sullivan Show
Starred in films like Amazing Grace (1974)
🏳️‍🌈 Trailblazer in Comedy and Identity
Moms Mabley was also one of the first openly lesbian performers in mainstream comedy, although her sexuality was largely kept from the public eye during her lifetime.

Her influence is still felt today, inspiring comedians like Wanda Sykes, Whoopi Goldberg, and Richard Pryor.