Angela Kinsey, Actress/Podcaster/Writer

Angela Kinsey is a multifaceted talent who has seamlessly transitioned from stage to screen with unwavering dedication and skill. Widely recognized for her role as Angela Martin on the beloved TV series The Office, Angela’s journey in the entertainment industry is as compelling as it is inspiring.

Early Life and Education

Angela Kinsey's journey began in Lafayette, Louisiana, where she was born on June 25, 1971. From an early age, she demonstrated a vibrant personality and an inclination towards performance, traits that would later define her career. Angela spent her formative years in Jakarta, Indonesia, where her family moved when she was just two years old. Her father worked as a drilling engineer, and the family’s time abroad had a significant impact on young Angela. She attended the Jakarta Intercultural School, where she developed an early appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives.

Upon returning to the United States, Angela continued her education in Texas. She enrolled at Baylor University, where she studied English and joined the Theta Kappa chapter of Chi Omega. The sorority experience provided her with a strong support system and instilled in her the values of leadership, service, and friendship. Reflecting on her time at Baylor, Angela once said, "Chi Omega was such a huge part of my college experience. The friendships and values I gained there have stayed with me throughout my life."

The New York Chapter: Internships and Inspirations

After graduating from Baylor, Angela made a pivotal move to New York City (yay!), driven by her passion for comedy and performance. In the bustling metropolis, she secured an internship at Late Night with Conan O'Brien. This opportunity was transformative, immersing her in the world of late-night comedy and television production. She observed comedy legends like Conan and Andy Richter, soaking in their timing, delivery, and improvisational skills. "Watching Conan every day was like attending the best comedy school in the world," she remarked in an interview. This experience solidified her desire to pursue a career in comedy and acting.

Los Angeles: The City of Dreams

Angela’s next big leap was moving to Los Angeles, the heart of the entertainment industry. Here, she dedicated herself to honing her craft, enrolling in improv classes and performing with renowned groups such as The Groundlings and IO West. This period was both challenging and formative. For a decade, she balanced her passion for comedy with various day jobs to make ends meet. One of these jobs was as a phone operator for 1-800-DENTIST, an experience she later drew upon when crafting the character of Angela Martin for The Office. "You learn a lot about people when you're on the other end of a customer service line," she once quipped, highlighting her ability to find humor in everyday situations.

Breaking Through: The Office

In 2005, Angela’s persistence paid off when she was cast as Angela Martin on The Office, a role that would become iconic. Interestingly, she originally auditioned for the role of Pam Beesley (can you see it?), which went to Jenna Fischer. However, the producers saw something unique in Angela’s audition and offered her the role of Angela Martin, the uptight, cat-loving accountant. This character, with her strict demeanor and hidden soft side, resonated deeply with audiences. Angela brought a unique blend of rigidity and vulnerability to Angela, making her one of the most memorable characters on the show.

The chemistry among the cast members of The Office was palpable and contributed significantly to the show's success. Angela’s real-life friendship with Jenna Fischer added depth to their on-screen interactions. Their bond extended beyond the show, leading to the creation of their podcast, Office Ladies. This podcast, which won Podcast of the Year at the iHeartRadio Podcast Awards in 2021, offers fans an insider's view of The Office, complete with behind-the-scenes stories and personal anecdotes. If you're a fan of the show, it's a fun listen!

Personal Life and Connections

Angela was married to Warren Lieberstein, the brother of Paul Lieberstein (who played cringe-y Toby on The Office), from 2000 to 2010. Another fun coincidence: Angela and the actor who plays Oscar were friends before the show and were thrilled to discover they'd both been cast!

Angela's daughter with Lieberstein, Isabel, was born in 2008, and Angela has often spoken about balancing motherhood with her acting career. She is currently married to Joshua Snyder, with whom she shares a delightful YouTube baking series. The couple's chemistry and shared love for baking are evident in their videos, providing fans with a glimpse into their warm and engaging family life.

Roles Beyond the Office

While The Office remains a significant high point of her career, Angela has showcased her versatility through various other roles. She has made guest appearances on popular TV shows like Monk, New Girl, and Better Things, each time bringing her unique comedic flair to the characters she portrays. Her film credits include roles in License to Wed, All-Stars, and Tall Girl, where she demonstrated her ability to transition seamlessly between television and film.

Angela also ventured into digital media, starring in The Hotwives of Orlando, a parody of reality TV shows, and Haters Back Off, a Netflix series that allowed her to explore different comedic styles. Her willingness to embrace new platforms and formats highlights her adaptability and commitment to her craft.

Podcasting and Publishing Success

The success of Office Ladies, the podcast Angela co-hosts with Jenna Fischer, is a testament to her enduring appeal and connection with fans. Launched in 2019, the podcast quickly became a favorite among listeners, offering a blend of humor, nostalgia, and insightful commentary on The Office. The duo's dynamic and engaging style made the podcast a much-needed source of entertainment during the 2020 pandemic, when many turned to familiar comforts.

In 2022, Angela and Jenna took their collaboration a step further by publishing Office BFFs: Tales of The Office. This book, filled with behind-the-scenes stories, personal anecdotes, and photos, provides an intimate look at their time on the show and their enduring friendship. It has been well-received by fans and critics alike, cementing their status as beloved figures in the entertainment industry.

Philanthropy and Personal Interests

Angela Kinsey's commitment to philanthropy is evident through her support of various causes. A passionate animal lover, she is a dedicated advocate for Alley Cat Allies, an organization focused on the welfare of cats. Her love for animals, particularly cats, is well-documented and resonates with both Angela Martin’s and Angela Kinsey’s fans.

Beyond her professional and philanthropic endeavors, Angela enjoys roller skating, a hobby she often shares on her social media platforms. These glimpses into her personal life reveal a down-to-earth and relatable personality, endearing her further to her audience.

Legacy and Future Endeavors

Angela Kinsey's impressive body of work across television, film, and podcasting exemplifies her commitment to her craft and her ability to connect with audiences. Her journey from Baylor University to Hollywood stardom is a testament to her perseverance, talent, and the enduring values she learned as a member of Chi Omega. Angela’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and continuous growth, embodying Chi Omega's motto, "Together let us seek the heights." As she continues to explore new opportunities and projects, Angela Kinsey remains a shining example of what it means to pursue one's passions with dedication and grace.