Shirley Hemphill

Known for

Acting

Born

July 1, 1947

Birthplace

Asheville, North Carolina, USA

Died

December 10, 1999 (aged 52)

Biography

Shirley Ann Hemphill (July 1, 1947 – December 10, 1999) was an American stand-up comedian and actress best known for brassy waitress Shirley Wilson on the sitcom What's Happening!! (1976–79), a role she reprised in the sequel series What's Happening Now!! (1985–88).

A native of Asheville, North Carolina, Hemphill moved to Los Angeles in the 1970s to pursue a career as a stand-up comedian. After working the Los Angeles comedy club circuit, her routine eventually attracted attention leading to her being cast in guest starring roles on television.

What's Happening!! was a modest hit for ABC, but production and cast problems caused the network to cancel the series in 1979. The following year,...