Punkie Johnson
American comedian
Jessica Williams (born April 29, 1985), known professionally as Punkie Johnson, is an American comedian and actress based in New York City and began her career as a stand-up comedian at The Comedy Store in California. Johnson is best known for being a cast member on the NBC sketch comedy series Saturday Night Live for four seasons, joining its 46th season in 2020 and leaving in 2024 after its 49th season.
Early life
Johnson, born Jessica Williams, is of African American heritage. She was raised by her single mother, Mary Johnson, in New Orleans, Louisiana, attending Catholic and public schools. She graduated from McDonogh 35 High School in 2003.
Johnson studied at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, Louisiana, where she graduated in 2008 with a bachelor's degree in general studies.
Career
Johnson began her career as a stand-up comedian. She later joined The Comedy Store in Los Angeles as a paid regular. In 2019, Johnson performed at Just for Laughs comedy festival.
As an actress, Johnson has appeared in various television series such as Space Force, A Black Lady Sketch Show, Corporate, and Adam Ruins Everything.
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