For many fans of the iconic television series, The Drew Carey Show, the character Mimi Bobeck left an indelible mark. Played by the talented Kathy Kinney, Mimi was known for her loud personality and outrageous blue eyeshadow, making her a memorable nemesis to Drew Carey. Despite the show ending years ago, viewers often find themselves wondering what happened to the actress who brought Mimi to life. Kinney's journey post-Drew Carey is both inspiring and fascinating, showcasing her evolution from a comedic character to a person who empowers women through her lifestyle brand and community.
Over the years, Kinney has transitioned from her role as the comedic antagonist on a beloved sitcom to a successful entrepreneur and author. She has built a lifestyle brand aimed at women, encouraging them to embrace their lives and find happiness. In addition to her business ventures, she has also engaged in philanthropic activities, proving that her heart is as big as her personality was on screen.
As we delve deeper into her life after The Drew Carey Show, we will explore how Kathy Kinney has transformed her career and continues to inspire others. From launching her own brand to engaging in charitable work, Kinney's journey is a testament to the power of reinvention and purpose.
Table of Contents
- Biography of Kathy Kinney
- Building a Lifestyle Brand
- Mrs. P's Magic Library
- Mimi's Cameo on The Price is Right
- Acting in Smaller Roles
- Improv and Live Performances
- Kinney's Connection to Showbiz
- Authorship and Inspirational Works
- Mimi's Merchandising Ventures
- Charity Work and Giving Back
Biography of Kathy Kinney
| Name | Kathy Kinney |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 3, 1954 |
| Famous Role | Mimi Bobeck on The Drew Carey Show |
| Career Highlights | Actress, Author, Entrepreneur |
| Website | Queen of Your Own Life |
Building a Lifestyle Brand
Since leaving behind The Drew Carey Show, Kathy Kinney has created a lifestyle brand called Queen of Your Own Life. This brand focuses on inspiring women to embrace their lives and find happiness, particularly aimed at those aged 40 and beyond. Kinney, alongside her best friend Cindy Ratzlaff, has built a community that encourages positivity and self-acceptance.
The brand has gained a significant following, with Kinney's Facebook community reaching over 337,000 likes. This community serves as a platform for daily inspirations and reflections, creating a space where women can connect and support each other. Kinney's approach towards uplifting women is refreshing and has resonated with many, showing that life can be fulfilling at any age.
Mrs. P's Magic Library
In addition to her brand, Kinney launched Mrs. P's Magic Library, an online platform that brings classic children's stories to life. This project reflects her dedication to nurturing a love for reading among children. The website features stories read by Kinney in character as Mrs. P, aiming to inspire young readers through engaging storytelling.
Kinney's commitment to this project is evident as she funds it entirely out of her own pocket, emphasizing the importance of giving back. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed; Mrs. P's programming has been praised as a welcome departure from typical children's entertainment, showcasing her dedication to quality content.
Mimi's Cameo on The Price is Right
Mimi Bobeck made a notable return to television during April Fools' Day specials on The Price is Right. In 2009 and 2010, Kathy Kinney reprised her role as Mimi, delighting fans with her comedic antics. Her appearances were a hit, proving that the character had not lost her charm over the years.
During her 2010 appearance, Mimi took on the role of executive producer for the show, bringing her unique brand of humor to a game show setting. Kinney's ability to slip back into the character demonstrated her deep connection to the role and the affection fans still held for Mimi.
Acting in Smaller Roles
Since the conclusion of The Drew Carey Show, Kinney has embraced smaller acting roles, showcasing her versatility as an actress. She appeared in a season 5 episode of the sitcom Baby Daddy, among other projects. Her appearances may be less frequent, but they reflect her continued passion for acting.
Moreover, Kinney has lent her voice to animated characters, including a memorable role as Rhonda, a walrus on The Penguins of Madagascar. These roles allow her to explore different facets of her acting capabilities while still staying connected to the entertainment industry.
Improv and Live Performances
Kinney's connection with Drew Carey extends beyond The Drew Carey Show, as she has participated in live performances and improv comedy. She joined Carey in his live shows in Las Vegas, showcasing her comedic talents in a different format. Kinney's willingness to step outside her comfort zone highlights her passion for performance and her desire to grow as an artist.
Kinney has expressed that she enjoys the improvisational aspect of comedy, even if it isn't her primary focus. This experience allows her to connect with audiences in a more personal way, demonstrating her range as a performer.
Kinney's Connection to Showbiz
Kathy Kinney has maintained strong ties to her fellow cast members from The Drew Carey Show. She often reunites with them for performances and special events, creating a sense of camaraderie that extends beyond the screen. These gatherings resemble family reunions, filled with laughter and shared memories, highlighting the bonds formed during their time on the show.
Kinney has shared that these reunions are a cherished part of her life, allowing her to reconnect with friends and celebrate their shared experiences. This sense of community within the entertainment industry speaks to the lasting impact of their work together.
Authorship and Inspirational Works
Beyond her acting and entrepreneurial endeavors, Kinney has also ventured into writing. She has authored several books, including Queen of Your Own Life: The Grown-Up Woman's Guide to Claiming Happiness and Getting the Life You Deserve. These works often reflect the themes of self-empowerment and positivity that her brand promotes.
Kinney's books have resonated with readers looking for guidance and inspiration, further establishing her as a voice for women seeking fulfillment in their lives. Her ability to translate her experiences into written form demonstrates her versatility and commitment to making a difference.
Mimi's Merchandising Ventures
With the success of her lifestyle brand, Kinney has expanded her offerings to include merchandise. Under the Queen of Your Own Life brand, she sells a variety of products, including motivational calendars and apparel. This merchandising effort not only promotes her brand but also provides fans with tangible ways to engage with her message.
Kinney's dedication to her brand and its message is evident in the quality and thoughtfulness of her products. Each item reflects her commitment to inspiring others, making her merchandise not just a business venture but a way to spread positivity.
Charity Work and Giving Back
Kathy Kinney remains deeply committed to her roots and regularly participates in charitable activities. She often returns to her hometown of Stevens Point, Wisconsin, to engage in community service and support local initiatives. Kinney's involvement with organizations like the United Way highlights her desire to give back and make a difference in her community.
Through her charitable efforts, Kinney continues to embody the values she promotes in her brand, showing that true fulfillment comes from helping others. Her willingness to use her platform for good serves as an example for many, proving that success can be measured in the impact one has
