Heidi Gardner is an American actress, comedian, and voice artist best known for her work on Saturday Night Live (SNL). With a sharp comedic sense and a knack for impressions, she has carved a niche for herself in the entertainment industry. From her early days at The Groundlings to becoming a staple on SNL, Gardner has demonstrated immense versatility in both live performances and voice acting. Her contributions to film and television have further solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s most beloved comedic talents.
Early Life and Education
Heidi Gardner was born on July 27, 1983, in Kansas City, Missouri, USA. She grew up in a middle-class family and spent her formative years in the state. Gardner attended an all-girls Catholic school, Notre Dame de Sion, where she first discovered her love for performance and comedy. However, during her early years, she did not initially pursue a career in entertainment, instead focusing on her academic studies and extracurricular activities.
After high school, Gardner enrolled at the University of Kansas but later transferred to the University of Missouri. Despite her academic achievements, she found herself uninspired by her studies and ultimately decided to drop out before completing her degree. Seeking new opportunities, she moved to Los Angeles, where she worked various jobs, including as a hairstylist, before finding her true passion in comedy and acting.
Personal Life
Heidi Gardner has largely kept her personal life private, but she is known for her down-to-earth personality and strong work ethic. She is married to Zeb Wells, a writer and director known for his work in comic books and television, particularly in the Marvel universe and on projects such as Robot Chicken.
Gardner’s personal interests include music, particularly classic rock, and she has often cited The Beatles as a major influence in her life. She is also an advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken about the importance of perseverance and self-belief in achieving success.
In interviews, Gardner has expressed gratitude for the support of her family and friends, crediting them with helping her navigate the challenges of her career. Despite her growing fame, she remains humble and committed to her craft.
Family
Heidi Gardner was born to American parents in Kansas City, Missouri. While she has not publicly shared many details about her family members, she has occasionally mentioned in interviews that they have been supportive of her career. Her upbringing in a tight-knit, Midwest family played a significant role in shaping her comedic perspective and work ethic.
Gardner has an older brother, Justin Gardner, who has also been a source of inspiration in her life. She has spoken fondly of her childhood and how growing up in Missouri influenced her sense of humor and perspective on the world.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Heidi Lynn Gardner |
| Date of Birth | July 27, 1983 |
| Age (2025) | 41 years old |
| Birthplace | Kansas City, Missouri, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actress, Comedian, Voice Artist |
| Education | University of Missouri (dropped out) |
| Years Active | 2014–present |
| Spouse | Zeb Wells (m. 2010) |
| Parents | Erny Huelke (Mother) |
| Notable Works | Saturday Night Live, SuperMansion, Hustle |
| Net Worth (2025) | $5 million |
| Height | 5 ft 9 in (175 cm) |
Career
Early Career and Training
After moving to Los Angeles, Gardner initially worked as a hairstylist for several years before discovering improvisational comedy. Encouraged by friends, she joined The Groundlings, a prestigious comedy troupe known for training many successful comedians. While at The Groundlings, she honed her skills in sketch comedy and improv, developing a unique comedic voice that would later earn her a spot on Saturday Night Live (SNL).
Gardner spent several years performing with The Groundlings and eventually became a member of their main company. Her performances caught the attention of talent scouts, leading to opportunities in television and voice acting.
Breakthrough with Saturday Night Live
In 2017, Heidi Gardner joined the cast of Saturday Night Live (SNL) as a featured player in its 43rd season. Her sharp comedic timing, ability to create memorable characters, and versatility quickly made her a standout performer. She was later promoted to a repertory player, solidifying her place as a key member of the SNL cast.
Some of Gardner’s most popular characters on SNL include Bailey Gismert, a socially awkward teenage movie reviewer, and Angel, a perpetually unfortunate “Every Boxer’s Girlfriend.” She has also impersonated numerous celebrities, earning praise for her impressions of figures like Kristen Wiig, Drew Barrymore, and Melania Trump.
Film and Television Work
Beyond SNL, Gardner has pursued a variety of roles in television and film. She has provided voice work for animated series such as SuperMansion, in which she played multiple characters, including Cooch. Her comedic talents have also landed her roles in films like Hustle (2022), where she starred alongside Adam Sandler, and Life of the Party (2018), featuring Melissa McCarthy.
Gardner has also made guest appearances on television shows such as Veep and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Her ability to seamlessly transition between live-action comedy and voice acting has contributed to her growing success in Hollywood.
Future Prospects
As an established member of the SNL cast, Heidi Gardner continues to build her career in comedy and acting. Her distinct comedic style, combined with her dedication to her craft, has positioned her as one of the standout performers of her generation. She is expected to take on more roles in film and television, further cementing her status as a versatile entertainer.
In addition to her work in front of the camera, Gardner has expressed interest in writing and producing. Given her experience in sketch comedy and character development, it is likely that she will explore opportunities in scriptwriting and content creation in the future.
Heidi Gardner’s Movies
| Year | Movie Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Dibs! | Erica | Short film |
| 2016 | Life of the Party | Leonor | Comedy starring Melissa McCarthy |
| 2018 | Making Babies | Meg | Independent comedy film |
| 2019 | Otherhood | Erin | Netflix comedy-drama |
| 2021 | Hustle | Katherine Merrick | Sports drama starring Adam Sandler |
| 2023 | Transformers: Rise of the Beasts | Voice of Airazor | Animated role in blockbuster film |
Latest News About Heidi Gardner (2025)
As of early 2025, Heidi Gardner continues to shine on SNL, delivering standout performances. Recently, she gained attention for her hilarious impersonation of Taylor Swift during a skit about the 2025 Grammy Awards, which went viral on social media. Fans and critics praised her ability to capture Swift’s mannerisms and voice with comedic precision. Additionally, rumors are circulating about her upcoming role in an untitled comedy film set to be released in late 2025.
Height and Physical Appearance
Heidi Gardner stands at an impressive 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm). She has a slender and athletic build, with blonde hair and expressive blue-green eyes that complement her striking features. Her distinctive look and vibrant personality contribute to her on-screen appeal, making her a fan favorite on SNL and beyond.
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Official Link |
| @heidilgardner | |
| Twitter (X) | @heidilgardner |
| Not Available |
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Heidi Gardner’s estimated net worth is around $5 million. Most of her wealth comes from her tenure on Saturday Night Live, as well as her work in films, television series, and voice acting. She has also secured brand endorsements and sponsorship deals, further increasing her financial success. With her growing popularity, her net worth is expected to rise in the coming years.
