Punkie Johnson

Jessica Williams (born April 29, 1985), known professionally as Punkie Johnson, is an American stand-up comedian, actress, and writer based in New York City. Johnson began her career as a stand-up comedian at The Comedy Store in California, before becoming a featured player on the NBC sketch comedy series Saturday Night Live for its 46th season in 2020. She was promoted to repertory status in 2022, ahead of the show's 48th season. Early life Johnson, born Jessica Williams, was raised by her mother, Mary Johnson, in New Orleans, Louisiana, where she attended Catholic and public schools, graduating in May 2003 from McDonogh 35 High School. Johnson studied at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, Louisiana, where she graduated in May 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. As an actress, Johnson has appeared in various television series such as Space Force, A Black Lady Sketch Show, Corporate, and Adam Ruins Everything.