Chonda Pierce

Chonda Pierce is a stand-up comedian, television host, actress, and author known for her work in Christian entertainment. Recognized as the RIAA's top-selling female comedian, Pierce has earned multiple gold and platinum DVD certifications and has been ranked among Pollstar's leading live performers. Her career began at Opryland USA in Nashville, where she performed as Cousin Minnie Pearl while studying Theater Arts at Austin Peay State University. Pierce later recorded "Second Row, Piano Side," a comedy DVD inspired by her experiences growing up as a preacher's daughter in South Carolina, drawing on her southern upbringing for material.

Pierce's work extends beyond stand-up comedy. She received five Daytime Emmy Award nominations for co-hosting the talk show "Aspiring Women" on Total Living Network and for her television special "This Ain't Prettyville!" on CMT Network. She has appeared on the Grand Ole Opry, hosted the Inspirational Country Music Awards and Christian Music Hall of Fame Awards, and made guest appearances on Entertainment Tonight, The View, Fox News Channel, and CNN's History of Comedy. Her stand-up comedy series "Chonda Pierce: Stand-Up for Families" premiered on Dove Channel, promoting family-friendly entertainment.

As a filmmaker, Pierce has produced documentaries such as "Laughing in the Dark," which opened on 858 screens and sold more than 100,000 tickets, earning the Best Documentary award at Park City International Film Festival. Her documentary "Chonda Pierce: Enough" explored themes of struggle, survival, and faith, opening on 1,510 screens and selling over 100,000 tickets. In "Unashamed," Pierce interviewed public figures who have advocated for the Gospel, including Michael Tait and Governor Mike Huckabee; the film opened on 818 screens and sold more than 80,000 tickets.

Pierce is a founding member of the Christian Comedy Association and the Branches Recovery Center. She has served as a spokesperson for organizations such as World Vision International, Compassion International, Food for the Hungry, and ChildFund. Throughout her career, Pierce has openly discussed her experiences with depression and her commitment to honesty in her storytelling. Through her books, comedy tours, and advocacy, Pierce aims to share stories of faith and hope, reflecting her journey and encouraging others facing challenges.