Lily Tomlin

Credits stand-up Jean Carroll as her main inspiration; says she's also been influenced by the work of Lucille Ball, Imogene Coca and Beatrice Lillie. Got first break in 1966 on The Garry Moore Show, then landed a monthly gig on The Merv Griffin Show and, in 1969, became a star when she joined Laugh-In . Met her longtime collaborator and partner, Jane Wagner, in 1971, when she wrote Wagner after watching a TV movie ( J.T. ) and asked if she would help work on material for an "Edith Ann" album.… Show more Made her Broadway debut in the one-woman show Appearing Nitely in 1977. Initially turned down the movie 9 to 5 because she disliked some of the jokes. Attended the 1984 Emmy Awards, for which she was nominated in the Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program category, dressed as her popular character Ernestine. Was awarded the Mark Twain Prize for American humor in 2003. Is a regular contributor to the women's website wowOwow.com. ~ Rovi

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