Jenny Run’s journey from engineer to stand-up comedian is a testament to following your passion and listening to the people who see potential in you. Born in China and originally working as an engineer in Michigan, Jenny’s sharp humor and quick wit often made her the center of attention among colleagues and friends. “Because it’s something I found enjoyment in, and so many people pushed me to go into comedy based on my jokes and everyday humor,” she shares. That encouragement became the catalyst for her career, leading her to leave the stability of engineering behind to step onto the comedy stage in Los Angeles.
Her comedic style is as unapologetic as her career shift. “Dry, raw, with no f*cks really given other than to make people laugh,” Jenny describes. Her humor reflects her personality—bold and authentic—allowing her to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. This candid and fearless approach has not only set her apart but also resonated with diverse audiences, making her a rising star in the comedy world.
Los Angeles was the perfect launchpad for her career. With its vibrant and welcoming comedy scene, Jenny found opportunities to hone her craft at renowned venues such as The Comedy Store and the Hollywood Improv. The city’s supportive atmosphere gave her the freedom to experiment with her material and develop her stage presence. But her journey didn’t stop there. To truly grow as a comedian, Jenny sought to challenge herself by performing in the bustling, no-nonsense comedy scene of New York City.
Having performed extensively in Los Angeles, Jenny took a stab at the New York comedy scene as well. Jenny offers a unique perspective on the distinct dynamics of these comedy capitals. Los Angeles, she notes, is lively and freeing. “LA audiences like more acting and stage presence,” she explains. “It just feels more freeing and chill.” New York, on the other hand, demands precision and punch. “New York has more short jokes, less storytelling, and the audiences are flatter, wanting the punchline over your personality.”
These regional differences extend beyond the audiences to the very way comedians work. “New York comedians have to work for their stage time,” Jenny points out. “They expect you to go out onto the streets and get people to come into the clubs.” In contrast, Los Angeles offers a more organic flow. “In LA, people want comedy, so the audience fills on its own.”
Jenny’s time in both cities has deeply shaped her as a performer. “New York makes you feel like you need to work harder as a comedian,” she reflects. “Los Angeles makes you feel like you can live in the moment and experience more.” For Jenny, balancing the grind of New York with the creative freedom of Los Angeles has been essential in developing her adaptability and range as a comedian.
Her journey underscores the transformative power of risk-taking and embracing the unknown. Whether captivating a laid-back LA crowd or winning over a discerning New York audience, Jenny continues to redefine what it means to follow your calling. Her story serves as an inspiration to anyone considering a leap into the unknown. Jenny Run isn’t just telling jokes—she’s proving that humor, when paired with passion and persistence, can bridge any gap and conquer any stage.
Jenny Run has just finished her first charity special which is intended to release for free across YouTube. She can be found performing comedy across various venues throughout Los Angeles on a regular basis, from The Comedy Store to the Hollywood Improv if you’re in for a night of comedy, you’ll most likely run into Jenny Run.
- YouTube: Kiss Me By My Arse
- Instagram @jennyrunjokes
- TikTok @jennyrunjokes
