Geri Jewell
Actor, Writer & Activist
About Geri Jewell
Geri Jewell: Breaking Barriers from Buffalo to Hollywood
Buffalo, NY, a city known for its resilience and determination, has fostered the growth of countless unique talents who’ve gone on to inspire the world. Among them is Geri Jewell, born on September 13, 1956, a trailblazing actress, comedian, and advocate. Her remarkable career and commitment to making the world better are deeply rooted in the strength and heart of Buffalo.
A Buffalo Beginning
Geri Jewell entered the world in Buffalo, NY, a city brimming with community spirit and determination despite life’s challenges. That grit would serve her well in overcoming the obstacles she faced from an early age. Born with cerebral palsy, Geri went on to defy every expectation, showing the world how powerful resilience and humor can be.
Buffalo’s vibrant sense of community left an indelible mark on Geri’s perspective on life. Growing up in a city that values hard work, connection, and perseverance gave her the foundation to approach life with courage and determination.
Rising Above Challenges
From a young age, Geri found a lifeline in humor, discovering that laughter could not only break the ice but also bring people together. For Geri, comedy became a way to dismantle preconceived notions about individuals with disabilities, and she quickly turned her talent for making people laugh into a dream of performing.
After leaving Buffalo, Geri pursued opportunities that often seemed unattainable, fueled by her unshakeable belief in herself and her mission to create change.
Breaking Ground in Entertainment
Geri Jewell’s big break came in 1980 when she became the first person with a visible disability to land a recurring role on a network television show. She portrayed Cousin Geri, a sharp-witted, warmhearted character on The Facts of Life. Her appearance on the show wasn’t just groundbreaking—it was revolutionary. Her casting introduced millions of viewers to authentic representation on screen, breaking long-held stereotypes about disability in the media.
Geri’s performance on The Facts of Life was not only funny and engaging but deeply inspiring, as she drew from her own life experiences to deliver authenticity in every line. Her success became a beacon of hope for countless individuals with disabilities, proving that talent and determination could shatter barriers.
Advocacy Through Comedy
While her acting work brought her into the spotlight, Geri Jewell’s true passion lies in advocating for others. Throughout her career, she’s used humor as a tool to challenge societal stigma and ignorance surrounding disability. Her groundbreaking achievements opened doors, but they also gave her a platform to educate, inspire, and uplift those facing similar challenges.
Her stand-up comedy routines are legendary, addressing issues related to disability with both honesty and wit. Geri’s ability to help audiences understand her perspective—while laughing alongside her—has made her a trailblazer in both entertainment and advocacy circles.
Buffalo’s Influence
Though much of Geri Jewell’s career played out on larger stages in Hollywood, Buffalo’s influence remained a core part of her identity. The city’s legacy of resilience mirrors her own story. Buffalo is famous for staying tough in the face of adversity, and Geri carries that same spirit in everything she does. She approaches life with a practical, roll-up-your-sleeves attitude that Buffalonians know so well.
The support she received during her formative years in Buffalo shaped her ability to take on challenges with grace and humor. While her career took her far, the lessons learned from her hometown have stayed with her always.
Lifetime of Achievements
Geri Jewell’s accomplishments extend far beyond her TV debut. She has continued acting on shows such as Deadwood, where she gave a remarkable performance as Jewel, solidifying her reputation as an extraordinary performer.
She’s also a published author, sharing her life story in her autobiography I’m Walking as Straight as I Can. The book is a heartfelt account of her experiences as a disabled woman navigating Hollywood, her struggles, and her ultimate triumphs.
No stranger to awards and honors, Geri has been recognized for her work as both an entertainer and an advocate, receiving accolades that celebrate her trailblazing contributions to disability awareness.
Inspiring Generations
Geri Jewell’s legacy is one of breaking boundaries and inspiring others to follow their dreams no matter the obstacles. Her life and work show that barriers—whether physical, social, or societal—can be overcome with determination and a sense of humor.
Buffalo can proudly claim Geri Jewell as one of its own, a symbol of what’s possible when you pair talent with courage and grit. Her career has empowered countless individuals to find their own voice, proving that a life of meaning and greatness can begin anywhere—even in the snowy streets of Buffalo, NY.
Here’s to Geri Jewell—Buffalo’s barrier-breaking star, using her voice, humor, and humanity to leave the world forever changed.