Sarah Sherman: Redefining Comedy with Unmatched Wit and Creativity

Sarah Sherman, known professionally as Sarah Squirm in the comedy world, has carved a unique niche in the entertainment industry with her unconventional humor and boundary-pushing performances. From a quiet upbringing in Long Island to becoming one of the standout personalities on Saturday Night Live (SNL), Sherman’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular. This biography explores her life, achievements, and the challenges that shaped her into the comedic powerhouse she is today.

Early Life and Family

Sarah Sherman was born on March 7, 1993, in Long Island, New York, to a Jewish family. She was raised in Great Neck, where she spent her formative years. Sherman has a strong appreciation for her upbringing, crediting her family, especially her grandmother, for inspiring her creativity and sense of humor. Her grandmother’s tales, practical jokes, and even a memorable prosthetic eye prank contributed to Sherman’s fascination with body horror and surrealism.

Growing up, Sherman was always a little quirky. Her affinity for the grotesque began early, painting vivid pictures of intestines-filled bottles and adopting eccentric styles. Despite her uniqueness, she was well-liked and excelled in high school, balancing her time between the improv team and running track. These experiences laid the foundation for her future as a performer.

Education and Transformation at Northwestern University

After high school, Sarah Sherman attended Northwestern University, where she graduated with a degree in theater in 2015. Though her initial aim was to join the university’s improv team, rejection led her toward stand-up comedy. This shift proved pivotal as Sherman found a medium where she could fully express her bizarre yet charming comedic voice. Her early stand-up performances included a mix of offbeat humor and experimental artistry, which resonated deeply with specific audiences.

The campus-based comedy shows served as Sherman’s testing ground, allowing her to hone her skills. One of her early jokes about living with herself forever showcased a blend of dry wit and self-awareness—an early glimpse into her potential. College became the springboard for a career centered on authenticity and innovation.

The Trailblazing Career of Sarah Sherman

Early Ventures and Rise to Fame

After graduating, Sarah Sherman moved to Chicago, where she immersed herself in the alternative comedy scene. Adopting the stage name “Sarah Squirm,” a moniker inspired by her high school nickname, Sherman became a fixture at experimental shows. Her monthly series, Helltrap Nightmare, quickly gained a cult following for its blend of comedy, performance art, and live music. Sherman’s niche—the intersection of body-horror humor and surrealism—was both shocking and entertaining, earning her roles alongside noise bands and indie comedians such as Eric Andre.

Her breakout moment came in 2018, when she starred in the Adult Swim infomercial Flayaway. Attracting praise for its absurdist style, the project led to her opening for Eric Andre’s Legalize Everything tour in 2019. Her writing credits for shows like The Eric Andre Show, Magic for Humans, and Three Busy Debras followed, demonstrating her versatility as both a performer and a writer.

Breaking Through with Saturday Night Live

The turning point in Sarah Sherman‘s career came in 2021 when she joined Saturday Night Live as a featured player in its 47th season. Known for bringing her offbeat humor to the iconic show, she quickly became a fan favorite. By 2023, she was promoted to a repertory player, cementing her position as a mainstay of the cast.

Sherman’s SNL segments are legendary for their wild creativity—think anthropomorphic meatballs and uproariously chaotic performances on “Weekend Update.” Her sketches often blend humor with grotesque visual aesthetics, a delicate balance that has brought her critical acclaim. Casting herself alongside personalities like Colin Jost, Sherman fearlessly mines humor from societal taboos, helping her retain her signature edge.

Awards and Achievements

Throughout her career, Sarah Sherman has received numerous accolades:

• Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Production Design for her sketch “Shrimp Tower” at SNL.
• Recognition as a top alternative comedian by publications like Vulture and Variety.
• Featured in beloved films, including You Are SO Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah, where she played Rabbi Rebecca, and the voice of “Coriander Cadaverish” in Nimona.

Latest News: Stealing the Spotlight on SNL

The latest buzz around Sarah Sherman involves her prominent role in Saturday Night Live’s January 2025 cold open. Sherman’s portrayal of Rachel Maddow in a skit satirizing political events, wildfires, and the TikTok ban has earned widespread praise. Notable for her biting humor and impeccable timing, Sherman showcased her ability to fuse political commentary with hilarity seamlessly.

Personal Challenges and Triumphs

Behind the laughs and eccentric performances, life hasn’t always been easy for Sarah Sherman. She faced significant challenges in breaking into mainstream comedy due to her unconventional style. Early in her career, job opportunities were limited as her bizarre videos alienated traditional hiring managers.

However, Sherman’s persistence and innate confidence in her craft became her strongest assets. Joining SNL was a testament to her ability to adapt without compromising her identity. Today, she balances mainstream success with her roots in fringe comedy—an achievement that few comedians can claim.

Net Worth, Height, and More

At just 31, Sarah Sherman continues to see her star rise—both in terms of influence and financial success. With an estimated net worth of approximately $3 million, Sherman leverages opportunities in writing, acting, and special projects. Standing 5 feet 7 inches tall with a slim build, her distinctive appearance adds to her comedic charm.

Looking Ahead: The Legacy of Sarah Sherman

Sarah Sherman is more than just a comedian; she is a reformist in the world of humor. By consistently pushing the boundaries of what’s acceptable on television, Sherman is reshaping the landscape for emerging talents. Whether as a performer on SNL or an advocate for experimental comedy, her trajectory stands as an inspiration to aspiring creatives.

Her audiences are drawn to her raw authenticity, evident in every performance she delivers. One thing remains certain—Sherman is just getting started, and the comedy world can’t wait for what’s next.