Ayo Edebiri Reflects on Stand-Up Comedy and New Film Role

LOS ANGELES, March 22, 2025 — Ayo Edebiri, the 29-year-old actress best known for her role as chef Sydney in the acclaimed series The Bear, spoke candidly about her early passion for stand-up comedy during a recent interview with W Magazine. Despite her burgeoning acting career, Edebiri revealed that she yearns for the stage where her journey began.

“I do miss doing stand-up. I love stand-up. I think that’s like my first love,” Edebiri said. The actress, who currently stars in the animated film Inside Out 2, reminisced about the energy of live performances. “No night is the same, no set is the same. You can tell the same joke and it’ll be completely different an hour apart, just based on who’s in the room,” she explained.

However, Edebiri acknowledged the challenges of balancing her stand-up roots with her acting ambitions. “When you’re a woman who thinks or has opinions, it’s a very specific thing and I think it does not behove actresses, for better or worse,” she said. This complexity adds to her navigation of public perception and professional identity.

Apart from her stand-up reflections, Edebiri showcased her acting talents in the new science-fiction film Omni Loop, released on March 13, 2024. In this independent project, she plays Paula, who helps a fellow scientist, Zoya, portrayed by Hollywood veteran Parker. Edebiri’s performance contrasts with her previous comedic roles, demonstrating her range as an actress.

Omni Loop revolves around Zoya, who discovers a black hole growing inside her, allowing her to time travel. The film explores her struggles, starting each week in the hospital and using time travel to change her fate. Edebiri’s character, Paula, serves as a crucial turning point for Zoya’s journey, creating a strong emotional bond between the two women.

The film’s first act is described as relentless, showcasing Zoya’s frustration. “It’s at this moment of turmoil that she decides to stop letting herself keep repeating the same week,” Edebiri elaborated, emphasizing her character’s role in driving the narrative forward. Edebiri’s entrance marks a shift in tone and energy, providing a glimpse of hope amid despair.

Critics have praised Edebiri’s portrayal of Paula for its emotional depth. In a poignant monologue, she reveals her profound loneliness and regrets tied to missed opportunities, capturing the essence of the film’s themes. “Everyone has some form of black hole inside of them for something they miss,” Edebiri remarked.

Directed and written by Bernardo Britto, Omni Loop exemplifies Edebiri’s talent in bringing humanity to her roles. The film resonates with audiences exploring loss and healing, further solidifying Edebiri’s status in Hollywood.