Ayo Edebiri, the rising comedic star of “The Bear” and recent Emmy winner for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, unveils a fascinating glimpse into her upbringing in a new interview. Born in Boston to a Barbadian mother and a Nigerian father, Edebiri’s childhood revolved around “grown-up conversations” and a strict pentecostal church, shaping her into the talented and introspective artist she is today.
As an only child, Edebiri thrived in the intellectually stimulating environment her parents cultivated. “I feel like I was kind of in an adult club,” she reflects. “I loved being a little adult.” This early exposure to mature discussions fostered her critical thinking and laid the foundation for her sharp wit and insightful characters.
However, her upbringing wasn’t without its anxieties. The church’s teachings instilled in her a deep fear of the apocalypse, a lingering effect she readily admits: “There was definitely a lot of anxiety about, like, the end of the world. Am I a good person? And I’m probably always worried about the end of the world in a sense.”
While the religious framework no longer defines her perspective, Edebiri recognizes its enduring influence. “I think when those things are encoded in your DNA, they’ll always be there,” she acknowledges. “It might not be always from the lens of an evangelist, but I think as a human being those are things that I think about, however consciously or subconsciously.”
Edebiri’s journey into the world of theater and comedy began at New York University, where she initially pursued teaching before switching to Dramatic Writing. It was there she met Rachel Sennott, her best friend and future artistic collaborator. This pivotal connection would later launch their successful writing and performance duo, “Poog.”
Edebiri’s ascent to comedic stardom has been swift and impressive. Her breakout role as Sydney Adamu in “The Bear” has captivated audiences and critics alike, earning her numerous accolades, including the recent Emmy win. Her portrayal of a young chef navigating the chaotic world of her family’s Chicago sandwich shop is infused with raw talent, wit, and vulnerability, resonating deeply with viewers.
From “adult club” discussions to church anxieties, Edebiri’s upbringing instilled in her a unique blend of intellectual curiosity, emotional depth, and comedic prowess.
