She may be recognizable as a supporting character from the hit show “Reno 911!” but more people are discovering Wendi McLendon-Covey in the newly released comedy “Bridesmaids.”
A recent interview with the Press-Telegram reminded readers that the actress is also a Long Beach, Calif., resident.
“I love it here,” McLendon-Covey, who was born in Bellflower, told Press-Telegram. “You can see me shopping at the local Pavilions, or maybe I’ll run into you at George’s Greek Café on Second Street.”
The actress attended DeMille Middle School and Millikan High School and then moved on to Long Beach City College, Golden West College and California State University Long Beach. She earned her degree in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in creative writing.
She performed with the improvisation/comedy group The Groundlings in Los Angeles, where she met fellow “Bridesmaids” cast mates Kristen Wiig and Melissa McCarthy. She performed for U.S. troops in Iraq and Kuwait.
“Wendi is such an amazing improviser that it was a gift every time she opened her mouth,” Wiig said in an interview with The SOP.
McLendon-Covey is also an editor for the academic publication “Reflections,” which focuses on helping professions such as doctors and social workers.
Her other acting credits include guest spots in the TV series “Wizards of Waverly Place” and “The Office” and a recurring role in “Rules of Engagement.”
Considering her previous comedic work, McLendon-Covey fits right in with the other ladies in “Bridesmaids.” The actress plays Rita, a jaded married woman who is fed up with where she is in life and especially with her children’s bratty behavior. However, just like the other bridesmaids, she somehow makes her mess laughable.
Wiig assisted in writing McLendon-Covey’s character, she told The SOP.
“We thought of this character as someone who is outspoken and fun loving and doesn’t care what people think about her,” Wiig said. “She’s married and she’s always complaining about it, but deep down she’s happy at home.”
“I like to play the weirdos,” McLendon-Covey confirmed to The Lantern. “I like to play the people that are hard to like. You get to say and do things that you would never say and do in real life.”
The actress claims to have a normal life compared to Rita. She has been happily married for 15 years and has cats instead of children.
“Bridesmaids” opened in theaters May 13.
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