Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria (born May 23, 1958) is an American comedian, actress and jazz singer. She became well-known for her portrayal of Carrie "Big Boo" Black on the Netflix original series, Orange Is the New Black from 2013 to 2019. In addition to this, she has also starred in Broadway productions, such as POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive in 2022 and the 2000 revival of The Rocky Horror Show. DeLaria's claim to fame was her groundbreaking 1993 appearance on The Arsenio Hall Show, where she became the first openly gay comic on American television.

DeLaria's career in stand-up comedy began in 1982 and has been an integral part of her performance style. She incorporates elements of music, particularly traditional and modern be-bop jazz, into her comedy. DeLaria has released various CD recordings of her comedy and musical performances, and has also written a humorous book entitled Lea's Book of Rules for the World. She has appeared in various films, TV shows, and musical productions further demonstrating her vast talents. DeLaria originated the U-Haul Joke (see also U-Haul lesbian), which has become a staple in her comedy shows. Her personal life saw her engaged to fashion editor Chelsea Fairless in 2015; however, they separated in 2017.