Rachel Vincent

Rachel Bloom, born April 3, 1987, is an American actress, comedian, singer, writer, and producer. She gained widespread recognition for co-creating and starring in the CW musical comedy-drama series *Crazy Ex-Girlfriend* (2015–2019), a role for which she received numerous awards, including a Golden Globe and a Primetime Emmy. Bloom's early career included popular YouTube comedy music videos, such as the Hugo Award-nominated "Fuck Me, Ray Bradbury." She has also appeared in films and released a one-woman show that became a Netflix special. Bloom's memoir, *I Want to Be Where the Normal People Are*, published in 2020, delves into her personal struggles with mental health and bullying.

Born in Los Angeles County, California, Rachel Bloom was raised in Manhattan Beach. She is the only child of a musician mother and a healthcare lawyer father. Bloom attended public schools, participating in the drama program at Mira Costa High School, where she used performance as a means to connect with others. She pursued higher education at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, earning a BFA in Drama in 2009. During her time at NYU, Bloom was a significant contributor to the school's sketch comedy group, Hammerkatz, serving as head writer and director. She also began performing at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in New York.

Bloom's comedic talents first gained traction through her online presence, particularly with her original song "Fuck Me, Ray Bradbury." Released in 2010, this viral YouTube video, a parody and tribute to Ray Bradbury, garnered significant attention and was a finalist for a Hugo Award. This success led to subsequent comedy music videos and a growing following. She also explored writing opportunities, interning at *Saturday Night Live* and later working as a television writer for shows like *Allen Gregory* and *Robot Chicken*. Bloom released her first musical comedy album, *Please Love Me*, in 2013, featuring some of her popular viral songs.

The pivotal role of Rebecca Bunch in the musical comedy-drama series *Crazy Ex-Girlfriend* (2015–2019) cemented Bloom's status as a prominent figure in television. The show, which she co-created, earned critical acclaim for its innovative storytelling and musical numbers. Bloom's performance earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series, Musical or Comedy, a Critics' Choice Television Award, and a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics. The series was also recognized for its casting choices, particularly for casting an Asian-American male in a lead role, which earned Bloom a Visionary Award from East West Players.

Following *Crazy Ex-Girlfriend*, Bloom continued to expand her creative output. Her one-woman stage show, *Death, Let Me Do My Special*, premiered off-Broadway and was later adapted into a Netflix special in October 2024. Her memoir, *I Want to Be Where the Normal People Are*, published in 2020, offers a candid look at her personal experiences with mental health and bullying. Bloom has also been involved in various advocacy efforts, including supporting reproductive rights, demanding better disability representation in Hollywood, and participating in initiatives like #ShareTheMicNow. She has also been recognized for her contributions to charitable causes and her support for Israel.