Chonda Pierce, born Chonda Ruth Courtney on March 4, 1960, in Covington, Kentucky, is an American stand-up comedian, television hostess, author, and actor. Raised in South Carolina by her preacher father, Charles Courtney, and mother Virginia Whalen, Pierce channeled a troubled childhood into comedic entertainment. She began her career at Opryland Theme Park in Nashville, impersonating Grand Ole Opry star Minnie Pearl for six years before pursuing comedy full-time.