From Fanny to the Nanny: The Evolution of Jewish Women in American Comedy

Join actor and television maven Callie Raynor for a lively exploration of how Jewish women have been portrayed on the small screen, beginning with Molly Goldberg, America’s first Jewish TV mom, who debuted in 1949. Through the work of stars and creators such as Fran Drescher, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Rachel Bloom, we’ll trace the evolution of these portrayals, consider the impact of early Jewish characters, and reflect on both the progress made and the gaps in representation that still remain in American television. The program will conclude with a special conversation about Callie’s own experience co-creating the contemporary comedy series Front of House, offering an insider’s perspective on Jewish storytelling today. Brought to you by the Orange County Jewish Community Scholar Program and sponsored by TBS Adult Learning.

Callie Raynor is an actor, writer, and TV super fan based in New York City. She is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned a BA in theater and a BS in radio-television-film with a focus on film and TV history. Callie received a graduate certificate from the Stella Adler Studio of Acting and has performed for audiences across the tri-state area and beyond. She is the co-creator, writer, and producer of the mockumentary series, Front of House.