Jessica Watkins is a comedian, actor, and filmmaker best known for her solo walk across America—a journey that became the subject of her acclaimed debut comedy special, Jessica Watkins: SPECIALish. Shot, written, directed, and produced by Jessica herself, the special chronicles her eight-month trek from Delaware to California, during which she performed stand-up in twelve states, lived out of a jogging stroller, and relied on the kindness of strangers. The special earned critical praise, with The New York Times calling it “exceptional,” and Paste Magazine naming it the 11th best comedy special of 2021. It’s now streaming on select platforms.
Originally from East Nashville, Tennessee, Jessica moved to Los Angeles at 18 to study at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, later relocating to New York City in 2008 to pursue stand-up. Since then, her comedy has taken her to festivals like Bonnaroo, the Chicago Women’s Funny Festival, and the Accidental Comedy Festival. She also helped break the Guinness World Record for participating in the world’s longest continuous stand-up show (80 hours).
Jessica starred in and co-produced the feature film Bad Batch, and created the web series Let’s Take a Walk with Jessica Watkins and Tiki. Internationally, she toured Central America with Comedy Abroad, raising funds for local education initiatives. Most recently, she toured as an opener for comedian Hari Kondabolu.
Now based in Montclair, New Jersey, Jessica continues developing new material in the NYC comedy scene—when she's not chasing after her toddler.
